Glory Man Utd!

BPL Match Preview- Liverpool vs. Manchester United

2009-10-25T08:29:00.005+05:30

United have the chance to open a 10-point gap on the side who pushed them closest in last season's title race.

With four successive defeats in all competitions, Liverpool are enduring their worst run for 22 years. A fifth reverse in a row would be their worst sequence since 1953.

Liverpool beat Manchester United home and away in the league last season and will be looking for a similarly inspired performance. A Wes Brown own-goal and a Ryan Babel strike handed Liverpool the Anfield victory after Carlos Tevez had given United an early lead.

Liverpool Team News

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez will give his injured trio of Steven Gerrard, Fernando Torres and Glen Johnson every chance to prove their fitness. Gerrard is the biggest concern of the groin injury victims but he received treatment on Friday, and that will continue right up until the Anfield match.

Torres and Johnson are much closer to being confirmed in the starting line-up ahead of the match but winger Albert Riera (hamstring) and defenders Martin Kelly (ankle) and Sotirios Kyrgiakos (knee) are out and midfielder Alberto Aquilani - who played for the reserves on Wednesday - will not be considered for the Liverpool squad.

Manchester United Team News

Michael Owen may get another start as Wayne Rooney remains a doubt for the Manchester United squad. The United striker has been out with a calf injury since England's World Cup qualifier in Ukraine a fortnight ago. Manager Sir Alex Ferguson is hopeful the former Everton star will be fit to feature on Merseyside but admits it is far from certain.

Veteran Ryan Giggs is poised to return after suffering a knock in last week's defeat of Bolton Wanderers and Patrice Evra has overcome a heel problem. Darren Fletcher (groin) is another doubt while Park Ji-Sung (knee) is set for a couple of weeks on the sidelines.

Wayne Rooney- The United striker picked up an injury while on England duty

BPL Match Preview- Manchester United vs. Bolton Wanderers

2009-10-16T21:00:00.003+05:30

After slipping up at home to Sunderland, Manchester United will be keen to keep up the pressure on Chelsea.

The Red Devils have won eight of their last nine Premier League meetings with Bolton who won at Old Trafford two seasons in 2001/02 and 2002/03 but have since lost on their last six visits.

Sir Alex Ferguson's men are unbeaten in nine in all competitions, winning eight of those matches. Bolton are unbeaten in five in all competitions but have kept just three clean sheets in their last 33 Barclays Premier League outings.

Manchester United Team News

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson will wait for the return of Dimitar Berbatov from Bulgaria before finalising his line-up.

Wayne Rooney (calf) is definitely out of the United squad while there are also doubts over Darren Fletcher but Michael Owen returns after a groin problem and Edwin van der Sar will make his first appearance of the season after suffering two broken fingers during a pre-season trip to Munich.

Bolton Wanderers Team News

Sam Ricketts is Bolton manager Gary Megson's only fresh injury concern. The defender is a doubt after pulling out of Wales' World Cup qualifiers with an ankle problem.

Johan Elmander returns to the Wanderers attack after missing the 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur with a hamstring injury.

Sean Davis and Joey O'Brien are both long-term absentees with knee problems.

Manchester United 4 - 3 Manchester City

2009-09-20T20:35:00.001+05:30

Michael Owen stole the show in a derby for the ages as Manchester United defeated Manchester City 4-3 and demonstrated why the team from Old Trafford remain the city's dominant force.

We came wondering about Carlos Tevez, we prepared to sing the praises of Darren Fletcher, then a City draw and United's shocking defensive errors. In the end, we were talking about Owen.

In the fifth minute of stoppage-time, when England's fourth highest scorer had been shunted so far down the list of talking points he was not even worth a mention, the substitute strode onto Ryan Giggs' precise pass, looked up and calmly found the bottom right corner.

Sir Alex Ferguson danced, Mark Hughes looked punch drunk. One of the most eagerly awaited Manchester derbies had become one of the most dramatic.

Hughes was sick, angrily asking how referee Martin Atkinson had managed to come up with so much additional time. He, more than anyone, knows what United can do with it.

It left the rest rather superfluous.

For the record, United led three times but on each occasion were pegged back thanks to their own idiotic mistakes. Carlos Tevez left the field laughing. But only because Anderson was winding him up.

Sir Alex Ferguson has put forward a rather disparaging assessment of Tevez's time at Old Trafford, highlighting why he did not feel the Argentina star was worth the £25million United eventually offered to pay.

Yet the Scot's assessment centred around Tevez's goals output.

No-one could ever quibble at his work-rate. It was one of the reasons that made him such a hero among the Old Trafford faithful and why the City fans were so quick to acknowledge talent beyond the obvious humour of signing a player Ferguson was urged time and again last season to sign up.

That knowledge left Ben Foster with no excuse for the truly abysmal error of judgement that gifted City their equaliser.

Even Joleon Lescott turned away in disappointment as his long pass bounced into no man's land. Foster clearly felt it would eventually run into the area, which was a debatable point in itself.

Eventually, Foster realised more urgent action was required as Tevez stormed in, just as he should have expected.

Any chance of redemption disappeared as Tevez nicked the ball away from Foster's grasp as he tried to reach the safety of his area, and slipped a pass to Gareth Barry which the England midfielder gleefully swept home.

The mistake was made worse by the knowledge Foster had already received one warning, when he got his wires crossed with Nemanja Vidic and allowed Tevez to half-block a long punt downfield.

Foster might have genuine hopes of becoming United's number one goalkeeper and going to the World Cup. In one moment of madness, he might have blown them.

An errant Wayne Rooney backheel might not have been of the same magnitude but its consequences were almost equally dire for United.

Kolo Toure strode onto the loose ball and fed Tevez for the opportunity to score a goal that would have left Ferguson distraught and humiliated in equal measure.

Tevez thought his shot was going in. To his frustration - and Ferguson's relief, it bounced to safety off the post.

It had all looked so different 43 minutes earlier.

United made a bright start, with Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov looking particularly threatening, when Shaun Wright-Phillips let Patrice Evra run free at a quickly-taken Ryan Giggs throw-in.

Evra fed Rooney, who had the strength to wriggle past Toure and Nigel de Jong before prodding home from close range.

At that point, the noise was deafening. If anything, the volume had gone even further up the scale at the end of a awesome first seven minutes of the second half as United got their noses in front, only to be pegged back once more.

Fletcher did the damage for Ferguson's team, rising above Barry to power home a Giggs' curling cross.

Yet, just as the hosts looked set to take control, with Park Ji-sung and Giggs going close, Craig Bellamy thundered home an equaliser.

Bellamy had been buzzing around in his inimitable manner, but there was no doubting the stamp of class on his 20-yard strike as he collected Tevez's short pass, cut inside John O'Shea and drilled into the top right corner. This time Foster was blameless.

But there was so much drama still to come. Fletcher thought he had won it as he powered home a second header, again from a Giggs cross, 10 minutes from time. Yet the suicidal tendencies in United ranks had not gone away.

Rio Ferdinand attempted an idle chip a minute from time, but found Barry instead. Barry released Bellamy, who ran 60 yards before tucking past Foster.

Match Preview- Besiktas vs Manchester United

2009-09-15T21:23:00.004+05:30

Manchester United look to get of to a winning start in their opening Champions League match as they face Turkish champions Besiktas.

United will look to get back to winning ways in the UEFA Champions League, having lost the final in Rome last year to a dominant Barcelona side. United come off a strong win against Tottenham at White Hart Lane over the weekend, coming from a goal down to win 3-1. Wayne Rooney will look to continue on his amazing goal-scoring streak.

Besiktas on the other hand return to the Champions League, having played the now revamped UEFA Cup last year. Even here they failed to make it past the group stages. Besiktas' recent form is awful, culminating in a three-goal defeat to Galatasaray at the weekend.

Besiktas Team News
Besiktas will look to Nihat Kahveci for goals following his return to the Besiktas squad after seven largely fruitful years in Spain with Real Sociedad and Villarreal.

The hosts' only injury concern is defender Ibrahim Toraman (heel).

Manchester United Team News
Paul Scholes' one match ban for the red-card received over the weekend leaves him ineligible for the Manchester Derby over the coming weekend. He will therefore probably find himself in the starting 11 for the opening match of the Champions League season.

Rio Ferdinand should keep his place in the squad after he came through the full 90 minutes at Tottenham on Saturday unscathed, while John O'Shea has shown no effects of his recent calf injury and could start also.

Michael Carrick, Nani and Park Ji-Sung are all pushing for a place in the starting line-up, but goalkeeper Edwin Van der Sar (hand), Gabriel Obertan (back), Rafael (shoulder) and Owen Hargreaves (knees) remain sidelined.

Match Preview- Tottenham Hotspur vs. Manchester United

2009-09-12T09:44:00.004+05:30

Tottenham hope to maintain their 100% start to the season when Manchester United visit White Hart Lane.

Spurs have drawn their last two league matches at home to Manchester United, but have not beaten the Red Devils in 16 league fixtures since 2001. Harry Redknapp's men have not kept a clean sheet in their last six outings but they have won their last eight at home, their best ever run in the Premier League.

However the champions have won 11 and lost only one of their last 13 league matches and will look to Wayne Rooney who has scored four in four against Tottenham.

Wayne Rooner: The United Striker's scored 4 goals in 4 matches against the Spurs

Tottenham Hotspur Team News

Niko Kranjcar is in the Tottenham squad following his deadline-day move from Portsmouth. Ledley King will need a final check on his groin injury, while Luka Modric, Michael Dawson, Jonathan Woodgate and Gareth Bale miss out at White Hart Lane.

Jermaine Jenas (calf) and Heurelho Gomes (groin) are back in the squad and Sebastien Bassong is available despite a slight knock picked up while on international duty.

Manchester United Team News

Rio Ferdinand and Gary Neville are both in contention for Manchester United's trip to Tottenham on Saturday after training during the week while Neville played a match with the reserves.

Sir Alex Ferguson may start Antonio Valencia on the bench as the Ecuador winger has had a long journey back from international duty in Bolivia.

John O'Shea is missing from the Manchester United squad after suffering a calf injury on i duty while keeper Edwin van der Sar's broken thumb will keep him out for another month.

Manchester United 2-1 Arsenal

2009-08-30T18:28:00.003+05:30

Arsene Wenger was sent from the dug-out in fury after Abou Diaby's own goal gifted Manchester United victory at Old Trafford and wrecked Arsenal's flawless start to the new season.

Arsenal were on course for a fifth successive victory in domestic and European combat when Andrey Arshavin's magical finish gave them the advantage over the Premier League champions just before the interval.

Sir Alex Ferguson's side had struggled to make any impact against Arsenal's resilient rearguard - but the shape of the game altered dramatically in the space of five minutes around the hour mark. Arsenal keeper Manuel Almunia needlessly fouled Wayne Rooney after 59 minutes to allow the England striker to equalise from the penalty spot.

And the transformation in the game and the atmosphere inside Old Trafford was complete when Diaby, in a moment from his nightmares, headed Ryan Giggs' free-kick into his own goal in front of an ecstatic Stretford End.

Arsenal were shattered as their previous good work was squandered and boss Wenger's misery was complete when he was sent from his technical area by referee Mike Dean for kicking away a plastic bottle in frustration when Robin van Persie's injury-time strike was ruled out for offside.

United keeper Ben Foster was culpable when he allowed Arshavin's 25-yard shot to fly in, but he was the hero when he prevented Arsenal taking what could have been an unassailable two-goal lead just after half-time as he blocked Van Persie from six yards when he seemed certain to score. Van Persie also struck the bar before Diaby's calamitous own goal as a highly-anticipated encounter finally sparked into life after the break.

Ferguson surprisingly left Dimitar Berbatov and Michael Owen on the bench and opted for width in the shape of Nani and Antonio Valencia - a formation that failed to trouble Arsenal in a disjointed first 45 minutes for the champions.

Much rested on the shoulders of Rooney, and he almost fashioned an early breakthrough when he set up Darren Fletcher in the fourth minute, but the Scotland midfield man failed to find the target from 10 yards.

Arsenal were able to reintroduce Van Persie and Arshavin to their starting line-up after the midweek Champions League win against Celtic, and they posed the biggest threat to United in an opening period lacking in quality until the Russian's wonderful goal.

Van Persie created a chance for himself inside the area, but was blocked by Patrice Evra before Arshavin capped an eventful few seconds by giving Arsenal a lead they just about deserved five minutes before the interval.

Arsenal had clear penalty claims rejected by referee Dean when Fletcher appeared to handle when he challenged Arshavin in the area - but as play progressed the little striker stunned Old Trafford by regaining possession and unleashing a rising angled drive from 25 yards that flew beyond Foster.

It was a moment of joy for Arsenal and Arshavin, but miserable for England keeper Foster, who should have done much better after getting his hand on the ball. Foster went some way towards making amends for his mistake two minutes after the restart, making a vital block with his leg as Van Persie stole in on more wonderful work from Arshavin inside the area.

Arsenal goalkeeper Almunia was the central figure when United equalised after 59 minutes, making an ill-judged dash from his line and felling Rooney as he went away from goal. Rooney recovered to send Almunia the wrong way from the spot and United's hopes were revived.

Referee Dean took the unusual - but correct - step of booking both Rooney and Wes Brown in the same incident as they hacked at Diaby. And Van Persie almost inflicted more punishment on United with a swerving free-kick that rebounded back off the bar with Foster beaten.

If Arsenal were knocked back by conceding a penalty, Wenger was beside himself in his technical area after 64 minutes when his side gifted United a second goal. Giggs could only direct his free-kick on to the head of Diaby who, with no other player in close attendance, inexplicably directed a header past Almunia into his own net.

The setback understandably knocked the stuffing out of Arsenal and Wenger made a change after 78 minutes, sending on Eduardo for Denilson. The striker received a hostile reception from the Old Trafford crowd in the wake of the controversy over his alleged dive in the Champions League against Celtic.

But their hopes of restoring equality suffered a blow shortly after when Arshavin limped off after appearing to sustain a muscle injury as he chased Van Persie's through ball. As Arsenal pushed for the equaliser, they predictably left spaces at the back and United almost cashed in. Substitute Berbatov slashed a shocking finish wide and Nani was denied by Almunia.

But Arsenal's mood was summed up by the sight of a disbelieving Wenger being dispatched from the technical area after he thought Van Persie had equalised, only to see his joy cut short by a linesman's flag. And the sight of Arsenal's manager being escorted towards the tunnel only increased the joy around Old Trafford as Manchester United celebrated a crucial three points.

Manchester United sign Michael Owen and Antonio Valencia

2009-07-04T01:41:00.003+05:30

Manchester United on Friday signed Englishman Michael Owen in what most consider a shocking move. The injury plagued striker signed for free as he was out of a contract with Newcastle United, having chosen not to sign at an extension at the now newly relegated Jordies.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson has been trying to resolve the sudden striker problems he faces with Cristiano Ronaldo and Tevez's impending departures. Ronaldo has had a bid accepted by United f Real Madrid and has in fact already signed a contract. All that's left now is his unveiling which is scheduled for July the 6th.

Tevez on the other hand has turned down a contract offer at United after having completed his two-year loan spell, his reason being that the arrival of Bulgarian Dimitar Berbatov last year caused him to lose his first team spot with the result being that he spent much of the season warming the bench.

Manchester United's latest signing, Michael Owen

Back to Owen. The ex-Newcastle, Real Madrid and Liverpool man has been signed on a two-year contract that papers report is incentive based, depending on performances and time played.

He was plagued by injury last year yet managed to score 10 goals last season as Newcastle saw themselves relegated along with West Brom and Middlesbrough. Sir Alex Ferguson, on having confirmed the deal, said "Michael is a world class forward with a proven goalscoring record at the highest level and that has never been in question. Coming to Manchester United with the expectations that we have is something that Michael will relish"

He scored 118 goals in 216 games for Liverpool, having signed for them as a teenager in 1996, before moving to Real Madrid in 2004 where he spent most of his time on the bench. He then shifted to St. James' Park the following year where he managed to score 26 goals in 71 appearances.

Manchester United also signed Wigan winger Antonio Valencia earlier in the week for a fee thought to be around £16m. He has been signed on a four-year long contract.

The Ecuador international has been tracked by United for the last 12 months and new Wigan boss Roberto Martinez has been unable to persuade him to stay at the DW Stadium.Valencia's arrival should ensure that Wayne Rooney gets the more central berth he craves next season as the Ecuador star is unlikely to venture into the middle quite as much as Ronaldo.

As he has already gone through the Premier League settling-in period after spending two seasons with the Latics, there are no worries over whether Valencia can adapt either. His lack of English may be a concern initially, although the main doubt of most United fans is a goalscoring return of just seven in 83 appearances for Wigan and four in 34 for his country.

Transfer Update 2

2009-06-25T23:19:00.003+05:30

Since I last posted, the world transfer record was broken twice! Both within a week, both by the same club. Real Madrid have signed Brazilian playmaker Kaka from AC Milan for a reported £56m, shattering the previous record of £47m they happened to pay Juventus for Frenchman Zinadine Zidane.

Cristiano Ronaldo-What he might look like in a Real Madrid jersey

They then had a bid accepted by Manchester United for, in my opinion, the best player in the world presently, CRISTIANO RONALDO! Despite stories in the recent past stating that he was not leaving United in the summer, all that is left to be done is for him to agree to the personal terms of his contract. United accepted an £80m bid for the Portuguese winger barely two days after Real signed Kaka. Real president Florentino Perez promised to bring in some big names and he looks to have delivered.

French winger Franck Ribery

There are various others also allegedly being chased by Real, including the likes of Spanish and Valencia striker David Villa, French winger Franck Ribery who is currently at Bayern Munich and Karim Benzema of Lyon. Interestingly enough, Manchester United also have their eye on the very same players, looking to fill the humongous void that will be left by Ronaldo.

Spaniard David Villa

David Villa though is suddenly not for sale according to cash strapped Valencia, Ribery requires a fee in the region 60m Euro according to his club and Benzema is just not interested in leaving Lyon this year according to reports.

Another United target Antonio Valencia of Wigan says its all up to his club now to decide whether or not he goes to the Premier League winners. Londoner's Arsenal have bolstered their somewhat patchy defense of last season by signing Belgian international Thomas Vermaelan from Ajax for a fee in the region of £10m.

United's town rivals Manchester City have further bolstered there already formidable attacking lineup by signing Paraguayan striker Roque Santa Cruz for £18m. The striker enjoyed a tremendous first season under Mark Hughes when he managed Blackburn Rovers, but after the manager moved to City, Santa Cruz's form took a turn for the worse, suffering from knee injuries, causing him to have it operated on in April this year.

United meanwhile are suffering from striker problems, with Carlos Tevez apparently refusing a £25m deal that would make him one of the highest paid at the club. Speaking of strikers, Inter Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahamovic apparently wants out of the club, but the club president, unwilling to let him leave before his contract expires next summer, has slapped a 90m Euro price tag on him, thereby deterring many clubs from pursuing him.

Alexandre Pato

AC Milan across the city are trying not to let all their star players leave, with another Brazillian, Pato, apparently looking to secure a move from the Rossoneri all the way to Stamford Bridge to former manager Carlo Ancelotti who left Milan for Chelsea this summer. Their inspirational captain Paolo Maldini has finally hung up his boots at the age, what i believe, of 42. Rumour had it that Pirlo was also looking to leave, but his agent says he will see out his contract at the San Siro.

Newly promoted Premier League side Birmingham have blostered their squad by signing Man. City keeper Joe Hart on a season long lone after the English U-21 keeper was displace mid-season by veteran Shey Given who signed for the club from Newcastle United. Adding to the woes of the relegated Newcastle, Micheal Owen has made it extremely clear that he wants back into the Barclays Premier League. Or pretty much anywhere that is playing top flight football, by the looks of things. HIs management company even crated a 32 page brochure about the ex-Liverpool, ex-Real Madrid Englishman, justifying his form in recent seasons while highlighting the good old days when he was able to find the back of the net on a regular basis.

Transfer Update 1

2009-06-08T23:03:00.002+05:30

It looks like AC Milan playmaker Kaka is heading for the Santiago Bernabeu after all the speculation over a possible move to either Chelsea or Real Madrid. AC Milan had issued a statement earlier this week saying that Kaka would either head to Real Madrid or stay at AC MIlan and that a move to Chelsea was out of the question.

AC Milan and Brazilian Midfield Maestro Kaka

The Brazil international is expected to be confirmed as a Real Madrid player on Monday after completing a medical. The fee is reported to be £56m, which would smash the previous world record of £47m paid to Juventus by Real for Zinedine Zidane in 2001.

Real Madrid's newly elected president Florentino Perez expressed his desire to bring in big names such as Kaka and United's own Cristiano Ronaldo. Prior to the Champions League final however, Ronaldo said he was perfectly happy at Manchester United and had no intentions of leaving this summer.

Unite have however accepted a £6m bid Frazer Campbell from Hull City . The 21-year-old enjoyed a successful loan spell at the KC Stadium in the 2007-08 season when he scored 15 goals in 32 starts to help the Tigers into the Premier League.

Despite Hull's desire to keep Campbell for their first season in the top flight he went on loan to Tottenham for almost the entire campaign as a part of the deal which brought Dimitar Berbatov to United.

Liverpool were left disappointed after summer target Gareth Barry signed for Manchester United's cross-town rivals Manchester City. The fee is believed to have been around £12m. The ex-ASton Villa central midfielder was aiming at a move to the Merseyside giants last year but an agreement could not be reached on the fees.

Aston Villa's ex-Captain Gareth Barry.

BPL Match Preview- Manchester United vs Mancchester City

2009-05-09T11:24:00.002+05:30

Manchester City travel to Old Trafford on Sunday hoping to take some points from their high-flying neighbours, Manchester United.

In-form City have won their last three outings in the Barclays Premier League, but will have to go some to achieve the same feat they managed last term - a 1-0 victory at the home of the Red Devils.

Sir Alex Ferguson's side will be full of confidence having booked their place in the Champions League final with victory over Arsenal in midweek and have recorded five successive wins in the top-flight.

Manchester United Team News:

Gary Neville has been included in the Manchester United squad for Sunday's derby match against Manchester City at Old Trafford.

The Red Devils skipper has recovered from the foot injury that has kept him out for a month and may play some part as United look to get the first three of the seven points needed to clinch a hat-trick of Premier League titles.

Wes Brown (foot) is out for the season after injuring it during a training session, while Carlos Tevez, Dimitar Berbatov and Paul Scholes are among those hoping for a recall.

Manchester City Team News:

Manchester City midfielder Shaun-Wright Phillips is facing a race to be fit.

Wright-Phillips has missed the last five matches because of an ankle problem and today was rated "doubtful" by manager Mark Hughes.

Pablo Zabaleta could be available after returning to training following a hamstring injury.

UCL Update- Arsenal vs. Manchester United

2009-05-06T00:57:00.002+05:30

Its nearly half time and United are ahead 2-0 and well set to enter the Finals thanks to goals from Ji Sung Park and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Ronaldo first set up Park's goal and then scored a screamer of a goal in the form of a freekick for 35 yards out from a tough angle. United have had the better chances in the half though Arsenal have more possession of the ball- 60% vs 40%. Fat lot of good its doing them.

It leaves Arsenal requring 4 goals now- 3 to make up the aggregate and the 4th to avoid losing the tie on away goals.

All I can say is, Glory Glory Man United, And The Reds Go Marching On!!

UCL Match Preview- Arsenal vs. Manchester United

2009-05-04T23:59:00.003+05:30

Arsenal look to overturn a 1-0 deficit as they host Champions Manchester United in order to progress to the Finals of the Champions League.

Both teams are in good form, United having won 5 consecutive League matches as well as the last 2 Champions League matches. They are also on a record breaking undefeated run in the Champions League and will look to extend it to 25 matches.

Arsenal on the other hand come off a 3-0 victory at struggling Portsmouth. They are undefeated in 20 league matches and would look to overturn United's boat and finally win a Champions League tittle.

Arsenal Team News:
Arsenal are still waiting for news on Robin van Persie. He may make it through a late fitness test. Arshavin is unavailable as he is cup-tied and Eduardo is out with an injury. Again. William Gallas and Tomask Rositsky are out for the season.

On the bright side, Arsenal managed to rest most of its major players on the weekend, with the likes of Cesc Fabregas and Manuel Almunia not even featuring on the bench.

Manchester United Team News:
United's line-up is greatly bolstered with availability of Rio Ferdinand who was suspected to have broken a rib in the first leg.

United also rested several key players like Ronaldo, Micheal Carrick and Edwin van der Saar in ther 2-0 victory at Middlesbrough. Frederico Macheda was handed his first start but was substituted 10 minutes into the second half for Carlos Tevez, the Argentine once again putting in an energetic performance.

Middlesbrough 0- Manchester United 2

2009-05-02T19:37:00.000+05:30

Manchester United took a step closer to retaining the Premier League title with a comfortable victory at relegation-threatened Middlesbrough.

Ryan Giggs gave the visitors the lead in the first half when his low drive found Brad Jones' bottom left corner.

Ji-Sung Park scored United's second when he smashed in Wayne Rooney's pass following a delightful move.

Boro's best chance fell to Jeremie Aliadiere whose low shot was saved by the legs of Ben Foster early on.

The league leaders will have been delighted to have come away from the Riverside with three points having performed far below the high standards they are used to.

But, in fairness to United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, he rested key players with the Tuesday's Champions League semi-final leg in mind and, rather surprisingly, Middlesbrough rarely forced United in to increasing their tempo.

Frankly, Boro, who may now need the help of magician David Copperfield to help them escape the drop, were bereft of many ideas except for flinging the balls into the area which centre-backs Nemanja Vidic and Jonny Evans coped with admirably.

The home side did have one clear chance when Marlon King played in Aliadiere who fired in a low shot which was saved by the legs of Foster.

At the other end, United's front pairing of Dimitar Berbatov and Federico Macheda were largely ineffective in the 4-4-2 formation.

So when United scored, it was no surprise it came from the boot of the PFA Player of the Year who is as desperate for his 11th league title as many of his team-mates are for their first.

Rooney found Vidic, who had been up for a set-piece, who in turn laid the ball to Giggs.

The 35-year-old Welshman steadied himself before placing his low effort wide of Jones' left from the edge of the area.

His veteran partner in the middle, Paul Scholes, 34, should have at least tested Jones after the break, but uncharacteristically failed to find the target with both of his long efforts.

Luckily for Scholes, United are not short of sharp-shooters. Their second came after a sublime move which saw Giggs and Macheda play a one-two before the fabulous Rooney threaded the ball to Korean Park, who powered in a low drive.

It was the highlight of the match and underlined that a supposedly weakened United can still produce outstanding footballing moments.

Manager Gareth Southgate brought on £13m striker Afonso Alves and Didier Digard, but neither could ignite a Boro side flattened by United's double strike.

They now travel to fellow strugglers Newcastle in what promises to be a tension-filled clash, knowing that they will have to improve tenfold in their remaining three games if they want to stay in the division.

BPL Match Preview- Middlesbrough vs. Manchster United

2009-05-02T12:44:00.004+05:30

Relegation battlers Middlesbrough host Barclays Premier League title favourites Manchester United at the Riverside Stadium.

United have had little time to recover after Wednesday's 1-0 victory over Arsenal in the Champions League. With only the slenderest of advantages and a place in the final at stake, could the Red Devils have an eye on the second leg at they visit Teesside?

Victory for Gareth Southgate's men could lift them out of the relegation zone, temporarily at least, with fellow strugglers Newcastle United and Hull City not playing until Sunday and Monday respectively.

Boro can take heart going in to this fixture - in their last four home encounters with Sir Alex Ferguson's men, they have only lost once though

Middlesbrough Team News:
Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate will check on a series of minor knocks before naming his side. Only Emanuel Pogatetz (knee) and Chris Riggott (ankle) have been ruled out of the match at the Riverside and Southgate is hopeful they will be the only absentees.

French midfielder Didier Digard, who was used as a substitute in the 2-0 defeat at Arsenal last Sunday after a lengthy lay-off, will once again be in contention, although he is short of full match-fitness.

Manchester United Team News:
Wes Brown returns to the Manchester United squad for the first time since the end of January as Sir Alex Ferguson's men look to take another step towards clinching the Premier League title by winning at Middlesbrough.

With Rio Ferdinand ruled out by a rib injury, Brown has been drafted into the United squad as cover for Jonny Evans following his recovery from a foot injury.

Ferguson is promising a number of changes, which could include the introductions of Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney, although more senior players could be involved than he first indicated immediately after United's Champions League win over Arsenal.

UCL Match Preview- Manchester United vs. Arsenal

2009-04-29T16:37:00.003+05:30

Manchester United look to continue their tittle defense as the they take on Arsenal at Old Trafford in the first Leg of the Champions League Semi-Finals.

United are unbeaten in 23 Champions League matches, a record, with their last defeat coming at the hands of eventual winners AC Milan in the same stage in the 2006/07 season. Their momentum will be high, having come off the back of a miraculuos 5-2 comeback against Tottenham on the weekend in the BPL.

Arsenal are also in a fine vein of form, undefeated in 20 BPL matches. They seem to have got over the setback of elimination from the FA Cup at the hands of Chelsea, with a 4-4 thriller against Liverpool at Anfield midweek followed by a 2-0 victory against Middlesbrough.

Manchester United Team News:
Sir Alex Ferguson has almost a full-strength squad to choose from. Only Gary Neville is missing after injuring his foot last week but John O'Shea is fit and could start at right-back at Old Trafford ahead of 18-year-old Brazilian Rafael.

Ferguson's main dilemma will be how attacking to make his starting line-up - in the second half against Tottenham on Saturday Wayne Rooney, Dimitar Berbatov, Carlos Tevez and Cristiano Ronaldo all played together.

Arsenal Team News:
Arsenal defender Kieran Gibbs is a major doubt for the trip north as he is struggling with an ankle injury, while his likely replacement Mikael Silvestre is not certain to be involved either as he tries to shake off a back complaint.

Gunners striker Emmanuel Adebayor shrugged off a hamstring problem and will be fresh to face the Red Devils after starting on the bench for the win over Middlesbrough on Sunday,.

Captain Cesc Fabregas (ankle/knee) and defender Johan Djourou (knee) also got through training this morning but leading scorer Robin van Persie (groin) and left-back Gael Clichy (back) remain sidelined, while Russian midfielder Andrey Arshavin is ineligible. Centre-half William Gallas (knee) and long-term absentee Tomas Rosicky will miss the rest of the campaign.

Ryan Giggs Picks up PFA Player of the Year

2009-04-27T09:40:00.004+05:30

Manchester United midfielder Ryan Giggs has won the Professional Footballers' Association Player of the Year award for the first time in his career.

PFA Player of the Year Ryan Giggs

The 35-year-old Welshman beat team-mates Nemanja Vidic, Rio Ferdinand, Cristiano Ronaldo and Edwin van der Sar as well as Liverpool's Steven Gerrard.

Despite winning a host of honours, including 10 Premier League titles, the PFA award had eluded Giggs until now.

Aston Villa forward Ashley Young took the Young Player of the Year award.

He beat his Villa team-mate Gabriel Agbonlahor, Manchester United duo Jonny Evans and Rafael Da Silva, Aaron Lennon of Spurs and Manchester City's Stephen Ireland.

Since making his League debut against Everton at Old Trafford in March 1991 aged 17, Giggs has been a key figure in Sir Alex Ferguson's teams.

As well as the league crowns, Giggs has also won four FA Cups, three League Cups and two Champions League winner's medals as well as two PFA young player awards.

He has only started 12 league games this season but has been a regular in the squad for all competitions and if he lines up against Arsenal in their Champions League semi-final first-leg on Wednesday, it will be his 800th club appearance.

Giggs was also one of six United players named in the PFA divisional team of the year but Wayne Rooney missed out.

The team also includes Liverpool duo Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard, Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka, who was in goalscoring form until the votes were cast but has not found the net since February and Portsmouth right-back Glen Johnson.

Premier League team of the year: Edwin Van der Sar (Manchester United), Glen Johnson (Portsmouth), Rio Ferdinand (Manchester United), Nemanja Vidic (Manchester United), Patrice Evra (Manchester United), Ashley Young (Aston Villa), Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Ryan Giggs (Manchester United), Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United), Nicolas Anelka (Chelsea), Fernando Torres (Liverpool)

Manchester United 5- Tottenham Hotspur 2

2009-04-26T00:27:00.002+05:30

A sensational second-half fightback against Tottenham helped Manchester United leap-frog Liverpool at the top of the Premier League on Saturday.

Darren Bent crashed in Vedran Corluka's cross and Luka Modric converted Aaron Lennon's floater as Spurs dominated.

Ronaldo pulled one back from the spot after Michael Carrick was brought down by Heurelho Gomes, and Wayne Rooney equalised from the edge of the box.

A Ronaldo header and strikes by Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov secured the win.

After United's dreams of a quintuple were reduced to a quadruple after last week's FA Cup shoot-out loss to Everton and with four days before their Champions League commitments, their season seemed to be balancing on a knife-edge.

With Liverpool briefly at the top of the table after their win over Hull, the pressure was all on United, who began without Ryan Giggs even in the squad, who will have to wait another day for his 800th appearance.

Spurs, hunting their first win at Old Trafford for 20 years, welcomed back defender Ledley King, Jermaine Jenas was favoured to Tom Huddlestone, while Jermain Defoe remained in London following the death of his half-brother.

It was a lively start in the Manchester sun with the first chance of the game falling to Darren Bent who headed tamely from the back post at Edwin van der Sar and Ronaldo skipping a shocking double-footed challenge from Wilson Palacios.

For all of their early possession, United were creating precious little, although Ronaldo went close with a header from a Nani cross, and they were made to pay inside half an hour.

With Corluka causing trouble down the right, the Croatian defender curled in towards a sleeping Rio Ferdinand who failed to deal with the ball and Bent was there to pick up the scraps on the six-yard line to crash in his 17th goal of the season.

And just two minutes later the Tottenham fans would have been pinching themselves to see if they were dreaming with Modric being mobbed by his team-mates after scoring the second.

Patrice Evra was having an awful time dealing with Aaron Lennon with the Englishman bursting past him, not for the first time in the afternoon and Modric chested down before smashing into the net.

With half-time looming and the Old Trafford faithful sounding increasingly anxious, a Ronaldo volley came within a Gomes fingertip of pulling a goal back.

The defending Premier League champions were rattled and Darren Fletcher's stray pass just before the interval's whistle typified a sloppy and incompetent 45 minutes.

The United's players returned for the second period with, no doubt, their manager's voice ringing in their ears and their comeback fight got going without the lacklustre Nani, replaced by striker Carlos Tevez .

The Argentine, who many predict will make an Old Trafford exit at the end of the season, almost gave a worthy reminder to his current employers what they may be missing, hitting straight at Gomes when one-on-one inside the hour.

Two minutes later the Manchester arena erupted as Carrick, bursting into the box after a Ronaldo pass, nipped the ball around Gomes and was adjudged to have been brought down.

The Spurs were players incensed, but Howard Webb's decision was not going to change and the Portuguese calmly dispatched from the spot.

If there was any doubt about the first goal there was none about the equaliser, when Rooney blasted in from outside the box after Rafael and Berbatov had combined to set up the English striker.

And just one minute later there were scenes of delirium with the on-fire Rooney crossing in for Ronaldo who dived at full-stretch to head home their third.

It was a phenomenal turn around - although numerically not quite as grand as the recovery in 2001 at White Hart Lane when United won 5-3 after trailing 3-0 at half-time.

The misery continued for a stunned Tottenham, as Ronaldo and Rooney were in danger of running the show on their own.

Ronaldo burst through on the right and delicately chipped for Rooney, whose volley crept over the line, despite the scrambled efforts of Jonathan Woodgate.

It was four goals in 14 minutes and United, perhaps sensing an urgent need to improve their goal difference - currently inferior to Liverpool by two - poured forward in search of a fifth.

Remarkably it arrived and it was courtesy of the boot of Tottenham's former hero Berbatov.

The Bulgarian's header was saved by Gomes, and with the Spurs defence struggling to clear the ball, Berbatov followed up to bundle in.

Once again, United have a breathing space of three points over Liverpool with a game in hand, but as Carrick predicted ahead of this epic battle, a few more twists and turns in the season's finale is guaranteed.

Ronaldo is now the Premier League top scorer with 17 goals

"Man Utd in reported talks with AC Milan's Kaka"

2009-04-25T19:29:00.004+05:30

Manchester United are reported to have held talks with AC Milan playmaker Kaka over a potential summer move to Old Trafford as a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo should the Portuguese leave for Real Madrid.

AC Milan's Brazilian Playmaker Kaka

It is understood that the representatives for the 27-year-old Brazilian met with United officials to discuss personal terms, which in wages alone could earn the player £35m over five years.

The Sun report a source close to Kaka as saying: ''It was a very positive meeting, although nothing was agreed.

''The player wants a five-year contract and wages of £135,000 a week. He is very keen to join United and these are figures that are within United's pay structure. It's up to them what happens now.''

No transfer fee was discussed however Milan could expect to receive at least £70m despite the prevailing economic climate - after all in January Kaka was subject to a £100m transfer bid from Manchester City.

Although United's parent company recently reported debts in excess of £600m the club could afford a move for Kaka if they decide to reinvest the cash they would receive for Ronaldo, who at the least would command a fee in the region of £70m.

While Kaka is understood to have baulked at the possibility of a move to the City of Manchester Stadium earlier this year, Old Trafford is a different proposition, as the Brazilian has previously admitted when he said: ''They have some great players in Giggs and Scholes and especially Wayne Rooney.

''One of my best friends, Anderson, is also there - how can anyone say no? They are the English and European champions and a great club to play for.''

United Winger Cristiano Ronaldo

-From The ESPN Soccernet site: http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=640427&sec=transfers&cc=3888

BPL Match Preview- Manchester United vs. Tottenham Hotspur

2009-04-24T20:42:00.008+05:30

Manchester United can maintain their lead at the top of the Barclays Premier League with victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

The Red Devils are three points ahead of second-placed Liverpool and have a match in hand over their rivals. Tottenham Hotspur are just a point off spot and a place in next season's Europa League, West Ham occupying the last spot.

United have not lost to Spurs in their last 15 league meetings and 18 in all competitions. However Tottenham are in good form. They have won their last two and are looking to make it three in a row for the first time since April 2007.

Manchester United Team News:

Manchester United defender Gary Neville has been ruled out for a fortnight by Sir Alex Ferguson after injuring his foot against Portsmouth at Old Trafford on Wednesday.

It means the Red Devils' skipper will miss both legs of the Champions League semi-final against Arsenal as well as the Premier League match against Middlesbrough on the 2nd of May.

However, John O'Shea is fit after injuring his ankle in midweek and could be part of a United squad to face Spurs that also includes Wes Brown, who has come through two reserve outings this week without a reaction. Ryan Giggs will make his 800th appearance if he gets on the field.

Tottenham Hotspur Team News:
Tottenham centre-back Michael Dawson is still waiting for a scan on his ankle and will miss out on Saturday. Roman Pavlyuchenko is also likely to miss the Old Trafford visit as he recovers from a back problem.

Ledley King will require his usual check on his knee before being named in the starting XI, while on-loan Fraizer Campbell is ineligible to face his parent club.

United Veteran Ryan Giggs

Manchester United 2- Portsmouth 0

2009-04-23T10:37:00.004+05:30

Manchester United reasserted their authority on the pursuit of the Premier League title with a crucial victory over Portsmouth at Old Trafford.

Wayne Rooney - recalled to the squad after injury - put them on their way with a simple finish from Ryan Giggs's cross after nine minutes.

United goal scorer Wayne Rooney

And substitute Michael Carrick wrapped up the win when he fired in an emphatic strike eight minutes from time after Paul Scholes delivered a trademark slide-rule pass on his 600th appearance for United.

Sir Alex Ferguson's side produced a performance that was workmanlike rather than spectacular, but United's only objective was the victory that puts them three points clear of Liverpool with a game in hand.

If there was a disappointment for United, it came in the shape of a missed opportunity to improve their goal difference against a Portsmouth side that rarely troubled keeper Edwin van der Sar.

Giggs was denied twice by England keeper David James, and also missed from close range as United dominated for long spells without emphasising their superiority until Carrick struck late on.

Rooney was United's main source of inspiration as they looked to capitalise on Liverpool's failure to beat Arsenal in Tuesday's 4-4 classic at Anfield.

This was no classic, indeed for long spells it was distinctly low-key, but the result mattered more than the performance and United boss Ferguson looked a happy man as he strode away at the final whistle, to receive further good news that rivals Chelsea had been held to a draw by Everton at Stamford Bridge.

Ferguson, predictably, made nine changes to the lineup that lost the FA Cup semi-final against Everton at Wembley on Sunday.

And the significance of Rooney's return was emphasised when he enabled United to shake off early lethargy by putting them ahead after nine minutes.

Anderson started the move with a raking pass to Giggs on the left flank, and as Pompey appealed in vain for offside, he delivered an inviting cross for Rooney to slide home from point-blank range.

There was concern amid the celebrations as it became clear that Gary Neville, whose season has been dogged by recurring injury problems, was struggling again and he limped off, to be replaced by John O'Shea.

Rooney's goal deflated Portsmouth's early confidence, and the remainder of the first half was a tale of United creating - and wasting - a succession of presentable opportunities.

O'Shea's header was cleared off the line by Nadir Belhadj and James plunged bravely to block Giggs after he was cleverly played in by Rooney.

Giggs was the culprit again six minutes before the interval when Sol Campbell unwittingly set Cristiano Ronaldo free with a misplaced header but the veteran bundled the resulting cross wide from six yards.

There was one final opportunity for dominant United in the dying seconds of the half, when Darren Fletcher pulled his shot wide after being set up by Rooney.

The visitors, Peter Crouch apart, were showing little in attack and boss Paul Hart made a change during the interval, replacing David Nugent - who had been hobbling after a challenge that earned Nemanja Vidic a booking - with Jermaine Pennant.

O'Shea was caught by a poor challenge from Belhadj moments after the re-start, and he was replaced by Rafael da Silva after 52 minutes.

Rooney had been at the heart of all of United's best work, and an instinctive flick again released Giggs in the area, but James was swiftly off his line to make a decisive claim.

United had a rare anxious moment on the hour when Glen Johnson broke free in the area and forced the previously unemployed Van der Sar to push his low cross to safety.

Substitute Pennant then squandered a good opportunity when he arrived unmarked in the area, but instead of shooting he pulled a poor cross behind Crouch, who could only steer a volley wide. The same pair then combined as Pennant's free-kick found Crouch, whose header was saved by Van der Sar.

United's second-half display had plunged into mediocrity, but it was Rooney again who almost lifted Old Trafford's spirits when he raced clear into the area, only for James to once again come to Pompey's rescue.

Ferguson's decision to replace Anderson with Carrick was something of a surprise, but it produced the required effect as the England midfield man sealed the points and United's return to the top of the league with eight minutes left.

Scholes must take huge credit, with a glorious pass that slid into the path of Carrick, who shot across the defiant figure of James into the bottom corner.

It allowed United to relax and enjoy the closing stages - safe in the knowledge that they are firmly in charge of their own title destiny.

Match Highlights:

BPL Match Preview- Manchester United vs. Portsmouth

2009-04-22T15:33:00.003+05:30

Sir Alex Ferguson will recall his big guns for this Barclays Premier League match with Portsmouth on Wednesday night.

The manager rested key stars in Sunday's FA Cup semi-final tie against Everton but the move backfired as United were defeated in a penalty shoot-out as they lacked the necessary experience.

Portsmouth are six points above the drop zone and travel to Old Trafford in search of maximum points to boost their survival chances.

Manchester United Team News:
Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney are among the big names who will return to the United lineup.

Edwin van der Sar, John O'Shea and Darren Fletcher were also left out of the squad as United bowed out of the FA Cup to Everton, while Michael Carrick is attempting to shrug off a minor knock.

Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Dimitar Berbatov and Patrice Evra are all expected to return in a starting line-up containing only Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic from the semi-final team.

Porsmouth Team News:
Niko Kranjcar is out for Portsmouth after damaging an ankle in the win over Bolton Wanderers on Saturday.

Defender Younes Kaboul is also likely to miss out with torn fibres in a thigh muscle which could mean England right- back Glen Johnson reverting to his more familiar role and Jermaine Pennant recalled in midfield.

Kanu and Nadir Belhadj were match-winning late substitutes against Bolton, but with Sean Davis still fit despite reopening a wound in his knee, manager Paul Hart could bring back Richard Hughes or Angelos Basinas in a tight central midfield trio also featuring Hayden Mullins, and stick with David Nugent on the left.

Manchester United 0- Everton 1 (After Penalties)

2009-04-19T23:50:00.001+05:30

Everton won a penalty shoot-out at Wembley to wreck Manchester United's hopes of an historic haul of five trophies and seal an FA Cup Final date with Chelsea.

The fates were with Everton as they reached the showpiece for the first time in 14 years - but Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson will be left fuming at referee Mike Riley.

Riley refused what appeared to be a clear-cut penalty when defender Phil Jagielka brought down Danny Welbeck in the second half, and United's disappointment will be felt more acutely after they cracked under pressure of the spot-kick shoot-out.

Tim Cahill missed Everton's first penalty, but keeper Tim Howard saved United's first two efforts from Dimitar Berbatov and Rio Ferdinand. Leighton Baines, Phil Neville and James Vaughan were then on target for Everton, with Nemanja Vidic and Anderson responding for United.

And with Everton's fans providing a deafening backdrop of expectation, Jagielka calmly slotted home the decisive penalty to send one half of Wembley wild. Everton chairman Bill Kenwright looked close to tears in the Wembley directors' box as boss David Moyes raced on to the turf to celebrate with his players.

For United and boss Ferguson, there was only disappointment and they must now turn their attentions back to the pursuit of the Premier League and the Champions League.

As expected Ferguson made wholesale changes to the side that secured a Champions League semi-final place with victory in Porto on Wednesday - with Wayne Rooney, Cristiano Ronaldo and Edwin van der Sar not even on the bench.

But United's revamped line-up acquitted itself well in a drab first 45 minutes that offered little in the way of quality or chances.

Marouane Fellaini sent Neville clear in a dangerous position inside the area after 10 minutes, but finishing has never been the Everton captain's strong point and he blazed well off target.

Carlos Tevez then shot wide for United before goalkeeper Ben Foster nearly gifted Everton an opener in the 20th minute, stumbling over an attempted clearance and almost allowing Louis Saha in to score.

Everton had a narrow escape two minutes later when Rafael's cross was touched on by Welbeck, before a deflection off defender Joleon Lescott diverted the ball on to an upright with Howard wrong-footed.

The Merseysiders were receiving tremendous backing from their supporters packed into Wembley, and they almost had an opening goal to cheer minutes after the break, but Foster made a superb low save from Cahill's 25-yard drive.

Ji-Sung Park responded with a shot just wide before United made the first change of the semi-final, replacing the limping Fabio with Patrice Evra. Darron Gibson then tested Howard from long-range as the game finally showed signs of life.

United were then denied what looked the clearest of penalties when a breakdown in communications between Howard and Jagielka forced the defender to haul down Welbeck. Riley, whose appointment had been been questioned by Moyes, waved away United's appeals as Ferguson was moved into a jig of fury in his technical area.

Welbeck had recovered from a nightmare first half, showing great character to emerge as a threat for United, curling a good effort just off target with seven minutes left.

United, who had already introduced Paul Scholes, brought on Berbatov for Federico Macheda at the end of 90 minutes, perhaps hoping a moment of quality from the Bulgarian would avoid the need for penalties.

Cahill, while not at his most prominent, was always a danger and he forced Foster into a save with his legs two minutes into extra-time. And he was almost on the end of a miscued shot from substitute Vaughan - on for Fellaini - as Everton strived to break the deadlock.

But there was to be no breakthrough and the teams went into a penalty shoot-out, which would at least provide some drama on an afternoon that was hardly a glittering advert for the Premier League.

United keeper Foster was the hero in the Carling Cup win against Spurs, but there was to be no repeat as the Merseysiders kept their nerve to run out winners and book a return to Wembley to meet Chelsea on 30 May.

FA Cup Match Preview: Manchester United vs Everton

2009-04-18T16:48:00.007+05:30

Manchester United look stay on course for an unprecedented quintuple as they take on a strong Everton side at Wembley in the Semi-Finals of the FA Cup.

Manchester United are in a threatening frame of mind, just having knocked FC Porto out of the Champions League to set up a tie with Arsenal in the Semi-Finals. An important part of that match was that United kept a clean sheet, their first since their defeat at the hands of Liverpool.

Everton will give it their all in an attempt to win silverware this year. Their aims at a 5th place finish in the Premier League took a hit when the drew to current 4th place holders Aston Villa. It was however a high scoring match with Everton the dominant team for most of the match.

Manchester United Team News
Most of United's injury worries are over, with the exception of Owen Hargreaves. Wes Brown returns to action in a reserves game against Preston on the weekend. Rio Ferdinand made an immediate impact with his return to the United's lineup against Porto after back injury, helping keep a clean sheet after weeks.

Everton Team News
Everton's striker problems are still greatly present with Anichibe, Yakubu and Vaughan all still injured. Along with them, captain Mikel Arteta is also out with injury. On the bright side, on loan striker Jo has made a positive impact so far. Belgian international Fellaini has also been in excellent form, scoring 3 in the last 4; excellent stats seeing as he's scored only 7 all season long.

FC Porto 0- Manchester United 1

2009-04-16T06:56:00.001+05:30

Cristiano Ronaldo struck a stunning winner as Manchester United saw off the threat of Porto to seal a Champions League semi-final tie against Arsenal.

Ronaldo's thunderous early strike from just shy of 40 yards flew across goal and into the top corner. Nemanja Vidic missed a great chance from five yards late in the first half and Dimitar Berbatov had a shot saved.

Lisandro Lopez might have scored a dramatic late goal for Porto, but Edwin van der Sar saved his weak shot.

It was United's first clean sheet since their Champions League victory over Inter Milan on 11 March and it could not have been more timely as United became the first English club to win at Porto in European competition.

With Rio Ferdinand restored to the side after a three-game absence there was an increased assuredness to the United backline and in truth Porto failed to create any clear-cut openings until Lisandro's 85th-minute chance.

However, United's failure to score a decisive second goal ensured a nervous final few minutes to the tie as Porto pushed for the equaliser that would have put them through on the away goals rule.

The first 20 minutes of the match must have been close to perfect for United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who was presiding over his 150th Champions League game.

Wayne Rooney started on the right with Ryan Giggs on the left and Ronaldo supporting Berbatov up front. This formation allowed Ronaldo to occasionally drop deep in search of possession, which he did after six minutes before smashing his amazing goal.

United dominated possession, allowing them to play the game at a steady, controlled tempo, and there were few alarms for Van der Sar, who allowed a free-kick from Bruno Alves to drift wide of his goal.

Porto gradually forced their way into the match, slowly pushing United towards their own goal, and Van der Sar was eventually forced into action to save Christian Sapanuru's shot on the turn while Bruno Alves headed wide from a free-kick.

The home team lost momentum when Lucho Gonzalez was stretchered off the field after a delay while he received treatment and United went on to create a brilliant chance to take full control of the match.

John O'Shea flicked on Giggs's corner and the ball dropped invitingly to the unmarked Vidic but the defender's effort flew wastefully over the crossbar.

Raul Meireles and Hulk shot over after the break while Berbatov collected a beautifully weighted pass from Rooney but his subsequent shot lacked power and Helton saved. By this stage it was pouring down in Porto but Van der Sar made no mistake with a Hulk free-kick, while Rolando headed wide beyond the far post for the home side.

The visitors continued to press and the match became increasingly tense as United dropped deeper and deeper. But it was United, who play Everton in an FA Cup semi-final on Sunday, who went close to a second goal, with Helton making a good low save to claw away Ronaldo's shot.

Update: FC Porto 0- Manchester United 1

2009-04-16T01:04:00.002+05:30

Its half time at the Estadia do Dragao and United currently lead 1-0 (3-2 to United on aggregate) thanks to a brilliant 40 yard effort by Cristiano Ronaldo in the 6th minute.

United deserve to be ahead. They started well, have passed the ball better than Porto and have looked solid at the back - Porto haven't really created a chance. That said, the home side were gathering momentum when Lucho got injured, the break in play as much as the enforced change interrupting their flow.

For United, Berbatov's ability to hold the ball is helping them ease pressure and allowing Rooney, Ronaldo and Giggs - all of whom look lively - to get forward in support. Porto will be looking to get Hulk on the ball more than they have and to examine United in wide areas, especially on O'Shea's flank, although he has done well so far.

UCL Match Preview- FC Porto vs. Manchester United

2009-04-14T19:02:00.003+05:30

Manchester United look to progress to the Semi-Final stage of the Champions League as they travel to the Estádio do Dragão to take on a challenging Porto side.

European champions Manchester United will probably have to rely on more than another winning goal from teenager Federico Macheda to eliminate Porto from the Champions League on Wednesday.

United will have to tighten up in defence, be more creative in midfield and overcome mental tiredness to eliminate Porto, who surprised many people with their pace and fighting spirit in last week's 2-2 draw in Manchester. Porto has never been beaten at home by an English opponent, so United have an uphill task ahead of them.

FC Porto Team News
FC Porto front men Cristian Rodríguez and Hulk only played one half of Porto's match last weekend, looking to rest them for the crucial clash against Manchester United in the Champions League midweek. The Portuguese team are in excellent form following their draw at Old Trafford, beating Estrela da Amadora 3-0 on Saturday.

Manchester United Team News
United's main problems within the last month have been defensively, with Rio Ferdinand missing the last few matches through back problems. He didn't play the match against Sunderland in an effort to get him fit for the Champions League tie. Reports suggest that he should be able to start the match.

Apart from that, Ferguson should have a full strength squad against Porto, with Dimitar Berbatov over coming an ankle injury to feature in last weekend's match against Sunderland. Patrice Evra, Edwin van der Saar and Ronaldo were all rested for that match, though Ronaldo did make an appearance in the second half. Rooney looks to be in excellent form, setting up the first goal for Scholes and then having multiple shots go just wide.

United defender Rio Ferdinand will hopefully start the crucial fixture

Sunderland 1- Manchester United 2

2009-04-11T21:36:00.004+05:30

Federico Macheda rescued Manchester United for the second successive league game as his goal sent the champions back to the top of the Premier League.

Paul Scholes had given United a first-half lead with a fine header before Kenwyne Jones bundled home from close range to equalise for Sunderland. But with 15 minutes left substitute Macheda turned in Michael Carrick's wayward shot with his first touch.

His winner restored United's one point lead over nearest rivals Liverpool. The Anfield club had briefly gone top having earlier thrashed Blackburn 4-0, leaving United needing a victory to return to the Premier League summit.

That result looked unlikely as United again showing signs of tiredness in an indifferent display until 17-year-old Macheda made his decisive contribution.

With one eye on next Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final second-leg tie against Porto, Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson rested keeper Edwin Van der Sar, left-back Patrice Evra and winger Cristiano Ronaldo.

There was also no Rio Ferdinand because of injury but Jonny Evans passed a late fitness test and partnered Nemanja Vidic in the centre of defence, while striker Dimitar Berbatov was handed a shock start despite pre-match reports of an ankle problem.

Wayne Rooney started on the left with Carlos Tevez partnering Berbatov up front and United predictably dominated early possession against opponents who relied on strike duo Djibril Cisse and Jones to provide them with an outlet.

It took United until the 15th minute to create the first real chance but Danny Collins superbly cleared Vidic's header off the line from Rooney's inswinging corner.

However, United were in front under a minute later as Rooney was afforded far too much time and space on the left flank and curled in a teasing right-footed cross which found Scholes, who looped a near-post header over Gordon for the opener.

Calum Davenport had Sunderland's best chance with the former West Ham man sending Phil Bardsley's cross just past the post.

Bardsley was causing problems down United's right and Jones, under pressure from Gary Neville, was just wide from one of his teasing crosses as Sunderland edged close to an equaliser.

Moments later Cisse forced a smart save from Ben Foster and as Sunderland continued to press, Evans almost turned a Carlos Edwards cross into his own net but the post spared his blushes.

Just before the break Park Ji-Sung fired just past the angle as United finished an indifferent first-half performance on a positive note.

Following the re-start, Rooney sent a fierce shot inches wide but it was Sunderland who were the next to celebrate as Tainio beat Park down the left and sent in a teasing cross which Foster fumbled into the path of Jones, who bundled the ball home from close range.

The goal seemed to galvanise United and Scholes was unlucky to see a half-volley fizz just wide of Gordon's post.

Half-chances for Tevez and Berbatov followed with Sunderland relying on the counter-attack and Ronaldo was introduced with 20 minutes remaining as United desperately sought inspiration.

But it was another substitute, Macheda, who made the required impact just seconds after coming on by redirecting Michael Carrick's wayward shot into the corner of the net with a deft left-foot flick.

Victory sent United top with seven games left while Sunderland slipped closer towards the relegation zone with the Black Cats just two points off the bottom three.

Macheda celebrates after he tapped in Carrick's shot

Insulting Manchester City

2009-04-10T23:46:00.003+05:30

I read this online, and thought it was rather funny. It was on the ESPN Soccernet website under the tittle "Villa committed to Valencia as vultures circle"

This was what the first paragraph said:
"Valencia striker David Villa has insisted he wants to see out his contract with the club even though crippling debts make it almost certain he will be sold.

The Spanish international, top scorer at Euro 2008, has long been tracked by Europe's top clubs and Manchester City."

This is about as insulting as it gets, especially as City is trying to establish itself as a "European Giant".

David Villa, the Spanish striker, is sure to be hot property this coming transfer window

BPL Match Preview- Sunderland vs. Manchester United

2009-04-10T20:00:00.006+05:30

Manchester United hope to get over their midweek Champions League setback with victory over struggling Sunderland.

United conceded a last gasp goal to draw 2-2 at home to Porto in the quarter-final first leg to leave themselves a tough task of making it through to the semi-finals.

However, they are still riding high in the Barclays Premier League and victory would maintain their lead at the top, while denting fourth-from-bottom Sunderland's survival chances. Sunderland desperately need the win, having lost three consecutive games and not having won in their last six.

Sunderland team news
Sunderland could be without captain Dean Whitehead who is rated at only 50-50 to make it as he battles against a calf injury, although fellow midfielder Teemu Tainio could return after five matches out with a knee problem.

Defender Calum Davenport, who was ineligible for last weekend's trip to West Ham United under the terms of his loan deal, returns to contention, but manager Ricky Sbragia is likely to be without full-back George McCartney (calf) and striker David Healy (groin).

Manchester United team news
Rio Ferdinand will once again missing Manchester United's lineup for the trip to Sunderland with a groin injury. However, Sir Alex Ferguson is hopeful the England defender will be available for the Champions League return with Porto next Wednesday.

Jonny Evans (groin) could play against his former club, although John O'Shea will fill the central defensive slot if the Northern Ireland star misses out. Anderson, Berbatov, Rafael da Silva and Owen Hargreaves are still out with injury.

Match Preview- Manchester United vs FC Porto

2009-04-07T09:17:00.004+05:30

Holders United, looking to extend their record unbeaten run in the Champions League to 22 matches, go into the game in a far better of frame of mind than looked likely after 80 minutes of Sunday's Premier League match against Aston Villa.

United will start favourites although, five years ago, Porto knocked United out 3-2 on aggregate in the last 16 on their way to winning the trophy. Coach Jose Mourinho performed a touchline jig that is still a bad memory for many Red Devils fans.

Jesualdo Ferreira's Porto team are not as organised nor as tactically disciplined as the one Mourinho built, but they have plenty of attacking threat and go into the match in top form.

However, their record in England is poor, losing 11 of the 12 matches they have played. The only exception was the 1-1 draw at Old Trafford against United in 2004.

Manchester United Team News:
The Manchester United lineup is strengthened as they welcome back Wayne Rooney, Nemanja Vidic and Paul Scholes to their Champions League squad for Tuesday's match against Porto at Old Trafford after they were suspended from domestic action at the weekend.

However, centre-back Rio Ferdinand will miss the game with a back injury along with Dimitar Berbatov who has an ankle injury and will be sidelined for the next two weeks.

Porto Team News:
Guarín and Lisandro were called for the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals match . Colombian midfielder Guarín has recovered from injury while the Argentinean Lisandro Lopez, scorer of 6 goals in the UCL this season, missed the past match through suspension.

Manchester United 3- Aston Villa 2

2009-04-05T22:30:00.006+05:30

Federico Macheda was the unlikely hero in the match as he scored a stunning late winner as Manchester United regained top spot in the Premier League.

United took the lead when Cristiano Ronaldo scored from an indirect free-kick after a James Milner backpass. Villa deservedly equalised when Carew headed in Gareth Barry's superb cross and Gabriel Agbonlahor headed Villa in front from Carew's left-wing cross. But Ronaldo's low shot made it 2-2 before debutant Macheda turned in the box and curled home to snatch victory.

It was an incredible finish to a match that twisted and turned - and had looked to be going the way of Villa rather than the Champions.

But after digging deep, and finding inspiration from an untried 17-year-old, United have leapfrogged Liverpool at the top of the table. And they also avoided a third successive league defeat, which would have been more galling given that Villa were thumped 5-0 by Liverpool in their last match.

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez said his side's last-gasp 1-0 win over Fulham on Saturday had placed the pressure on United, and he he looked to be right from the way the champions started against Villa.

They struggled with an unfamiliar back four that was forced upon them because of Rio Ferdiand's injury and Nemanja Vidic's suspension. Gary Neville, retuning from injury, was brought in to partner John O'Shea in the heart of defence, but that proved to be a costly mistake.

Carew quickly served notice that he would enjoy the mismatch against Neville when his header was scrambled clear via Darren Fletcher and the post. And the visitors were in the mood to expose United's vulnerabilities. The pace of Gabriel Agbonlahor, back in the side for the injured Emile Heskey, and the poise and passing of Barry was causing United all manner of problems.

But United were handed a lifeline when James Milner passed the ball back to Friedel, who picked the ball up, and the resulting free-kick in the area was cracked in by Ronaldo after Ryan Giggs rolled the ball to him.

The goal settled United's nerves and they began to stroke the ball around with more confidence, but without really penetrating.

And Villa remained dangerous on the break, particularly through Agbonlahor, whose speed was a big problem for Neville. Ashley Young's free-kick was tipped over by Edwin van der Sar as Villa threatened.

From another quick counter Villa deservedly restored parity, Barry's excellent right-wing cross powerfully headed into the bottom corner by Carew as Neville stood by helplessly.

Shortly after, Neville was switched with right-back Jonny Evans - but it had been a half-hour to forget for the former United skipper. He would have felt better if Ronaldo's glancing header had gone either side of Friedel rather than straight at the keeper and given United a half-time lead.

Instead, Villa struck again on 58 minutes when Ronaldo was caught in possession and Villa moved the ball quickly to Carew, and his cross was headed in by Agbonlahor.

United's response was to bring on 17-year-old Federico Macheda for Nani. The young Italian, who hit a hat-trick for reserves recently, appealed unsuccessfully for a penalty after he fell under challenge from Curtis Davies. Then at the other end Davies was close to converting Ashley Young's free-kick.

United's two scorers, Ronaldo and Frederico Macheda, hug after the latter scored the winning goal

United needed something special from somewhere and it came from Ronaldo, who picked up the ball on the edge of the box and fired a low drive into the bottom corner to drag his side level.

The impetus was all with the hosts now and it took a fine save from Friedel to deny Fletcher from 12 yards. Substitute Danny Wellbeck was next to be thwarted by Freidel as he saw his shot saved at point-blank range.

But United were not to be denied and substitute Macheda produced a moment of magic to win the game when he turned spectacularly in the box and then curled a peach of a shot into the far corner, just beyond the grasp of keeper Brad Freidel.

Match Highlights:

Match Preview- Manchester United vs. Aston Villa

2009-04-03T21:51:00.004+05:30

Two out-of-form teams meet at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Manchester United enter the match having lost their last two Barclays Premier League matches against Liverpool and Fulham. Aston Villa meanwhile, have not won in the league since 7th February, a 2-0 triumph over Blackburn Rovers.

Earlier this season, the two clubs drew 0-0 at Villa Park. With both sides desperately needing a win, there are likely to be goals at Old Trafford on Sunday. The last time Manchester United lost three consecutive games was more than eight years ago, back in November of 2001.

Manchester United Team News
Gary Neville is expected to return for the first time since January. Neville has been struggling to overcome a groin injury but came through a reserve team outing on Monday without a problem and is set to figure for Sir Alex Ferguson's side.

Wayne Rooney, Paul Scholes and Nemanja Vidic are all suspended, Dimitar Berbatov (ankle) is out for a fortnight and Anderson is not likely to play after picking up a knee injury on World Cup duty with Brazil.

Aston Villa Team News
Gabriel Agbonlahor could be restored to the Aston Villa line-up as they look to end a run of eight matches without a win in all competitions.

Agbonlahor was left out of the starting XI for the 5-0 mauling by Liverpool at Anfield before the international break with John Carew and Emile Heskey preferred.

But Heskey is ruled out with a hamstring injury he suffered in England's 4-0 win over Slovakia at Wembley last weekend.

O'Neill has to decide whether left-back Wilfred Bouma is ready to play any part after eight months out of action with a dislocated ankle. He came through a third reserve match in mid-week with no ill effects.

Fulham 2-0 Manchester United

2009-03-22T10:27:00.002+05:30

Paul Scholes and Wayne Rooney were sent off as Manchester United's title hopes took another shock blow at Fulham.

Scholes saw red after 18 minutes for handling Bobby Zamora's header, Danny Murphy dispatching the penalty.

And as United pressed for a second-half equaliser, Zoltan Gera struck on the break with a superb control and finish. Seconds later, Rooney threw the ball away in frustration to earn a second booking on a miserable day for United, whose lead could be cut to one point.

It was a historic result for Fulham, as it was for United - although not one they will look back on with any fondness. Fulham had not beaten United at home in 45 years, while the visitors, beaten by Liverpool last weekend, had not lost successive league games since 2005.

The Cottagers' celebrations at the final whistle will surely have been matched at Anfield. Victory for Liverpool against Aston Villa on Sunday will see United's lead cut to just one point, albeit with a game in hand.

Sir Alex Ferguson, who at least saw Chelsea beaten by Spurs on an incredible day in the Premier League, will need all his managerial experience to galvanise his troops ahead of the visit of Aston Villa on 5 April.

United's frustration at Craven Cottage was epitomised by Cristiano Ronaldo, who twice had to be warned by referee Phil Dowd for his petulant complaining and was booked for a reckless lunge at Murphy in the second half.

In truth, Ronaldo, like his team-mates, was completely out of sorts, harried into giving the ball away with shocking regularity in a first half in which Fulham were rampant.

Roy Hodgson's side, who had leaked seven goals without response in their two previous games against United this season, peppered Van der Sar's goal with 10 shots before half-time, while limiting the opposition to just two.

Quicker in the tackle and always willing to test Van der Sar from distance, they fully deserved their lead when it came.

Former Fulham keeper Van der Sar did well to keep out Zamora's header from a corner, but the rebound came straight back to the striker and as he nodded towards goal, Scholes instinctively put his arms up.

Scholes knew what was coming as he stayed on his knees, looking ruefully at the ground.

As the midfielder trudged down the tunnel, Murphy confidently stroked the penalty high into the net.

It continued an incredible scoring record for Murphy, who three times gave Liverpool a 1-0 win against United in his Anfield days. Fulham continued to take the game to United, with Zamora in particular terrorising the visitors' creaking defence.

They should have had a second when Andrew Johnson miscontrolled and then Clint Dempsey blazed over from a good position. And it looked as if Fulham would pay for failing to make the most of their dominance as United came out fighting after the break.

Dimitar Berbatov, who landed awkwardly on his ankle at the end of the first half, was replaced by Rooney at half-time and the change gave United some much-needed urgency.

Darren Fletcher shot too close to Schwarzer after a one-two with Ronaldo, who could also only find the keeper with a free header from Rooney's cross.

United fans were on their feet when Ronaldo set up Ji-Sung Park in front of goal but Schwarzer not only kept his effort out but was up quickly to keep out Rooney's follow-up.

And Fulham wrapped up victory through Gera, who had his back to goal when he collected Johnson's cross but managed to flick the ball up and hook it home.

The sight of the second goal going in proved too much to bear for Rooney, who threw the ball away when a free-kick was taken from the wrong place to pick up his second booking.

The England striker gave Dowd a volley of abuse before storming down the tunnel, punching the corner flag for good measure on the way.

Match Preview- Fulham vs. Manchester United

2009-03-21T07:59:00.003+05:30

Barclays Premier League leaders Manchester United look to bring their hunt for the title back on track when they visit Fulham.

United suffered a surprise 4-1 defeat at home to Liverpool last weekend and will be determined to claim maximum points to protect their four-point lead at the top. The defeat at the hands of Liverpool was preceeded by an 11 match winning streak and United will hope to get some of that form again.

Fulham ended a two-match losing run by beating Bolton Wanderers which moved them eight points clear of the relegation area. Apart from the two successive defeats at home, there previous four matches at home consisted of three wins and a draw. In addition to that, Fulham have been beaten at home just once prior to those to defeats.

Fulham Team News
Clint Dempsey is a doubt for Fulham. The on-form American winger has had a bout of food poisoning but will be given until the last minute to declare his availability.

Other than that, Fulham are relatively untroubled by injury, with only centre-half Aaron Hughes ruled out with a rib problem.

Manchester United Team News
Veteran defender Gary Neville is back in the squad for Manchester United's visit to Fulham after recovering from a groin strain.

Darren Fletcher, who missed the 4-1 defeat by Liverpool due to a virus, is also in the squad.

Jonny Evans is likely to replace the suspended Nemanja Vidic alongside Rio Ferdinand in central defence.

Man To Watch: Wayne Rooney
Prior to United's defeat against Liverpool, the Englishman had scored three goals in three games after returning to action from hamstring injury.

Striker Wayne Rooney

Manchester United 1-4 Liverpool

2009-03-15T10:22:00.002+05:30

Liverpool revived their ambitions of claiming the Premier League title in remarkable fashion as they humiliated champions Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Sir Alex Ferguson's side looked on course to stretch their advantage at the top of the table when Cristiano Ronaldo's penalty gave them an early lead after Liverpool keeper Pepe Reina fouled Ji-Sung Park.

But Fernando Torres hounded Nemanja Vidic into a mistake eight minutes later and raced through to coolly beat Edwin van der Sar. And the transformation was complete a minute before the interval when Steven Gerrard scored from the spot after he had been upended by Patrice Evra.

United's day of misery was summed up 15 minutes from time when Vidic, who had a nightmare afternoon at the hands of Torres, was sent off for fouling Gerrard and Fabio Aurelio brilliantly curled home the resulting free-kick from 25 yards.

The torment for United stretching into stoppage time when Liverpool substitute Andrea Dossena lobbed a composed finish over Van der Sar after being allowed to race unchallenged on to Reina's goal-kick.

United remain firm favourites to claim the Premier League, with a four-point advantage and a game in hand, but if Liverpool needed any incentive to continue to carry the fight to United, the impressive manner of this performance will have provided it.

It has been a dream week for Rafael Benitez's side, with both Real Madrid and United put to the sword with four-goal performances. Liverpool, once they found their feet, were the brighter and more creative side - with the magnificent Torres the spearhead, ably assisted by Gerrard.

The Premier League leaders, in contrast, were lifeless in all areas as they suffered their heaviest home defeat since losing 4-1 against QPR on New Year' Day 1992. They were unsettled at the back and toothless up front with Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney unable to make their presence felt.

United must now bounce back from a defeat that was unexpected, both in style and scoreline, while Liverpool will move forward with renewed optimism that they can still over-turn the odds and catch the pace-setters.

Liverpool had already lost influential midfield man Xabi Alonso to a calf problem when their difficulties increased in the warm-up, Alavaro Arbeloa injuring a hamstring with Sami Hyypia coming into the side, though the veteran gave an outstanding performance.

Benitez's revamped side struggled to settle early on, and it took a trademark block from Jamie Carragher to deny the industrious Park. Torres posted the warning signals for United with a turn inside the area that needed Vidic to clear.

But it was United who took the lead after 23 minutes when Liverpool were punished for a rush of blood from keeper Reina, who dashed from his line and brought down Park when there appeared to be no imminent danger, Ronaldo completing the formalities from the spot.

If United thought the setback would break Liverpool's resolve, they were to be sadly mistaken as Torres produced a golden spell that had them in front before the interval.

He levelled after 28 minutes with an example of all the qualities that make him arguably the world's finest striker. Martin Skrtel's long clearance was speculative at best, but Torres' presence created uncertainty.

Vidic let the ball bounce and Torres showed lightning speed to touch the ball away from the defender and steer a composed finish beyond Van der Sar. Torres then planted further seeds of doubt in Vidic's mind with an arrogant nutmeg on the defender, followed by respectable penalty claims when he collided with the Serb.

There had been few flashpoints, but there was a swift exchange of bookings after Liverpool's Carragher tripped Carlos Tevez and Rio Ferdinand fouled Dirk Kuyt. Liverpool had ended the half in the ascendancy, and they were rewarded with the lead in the 44th minute.

Torres was the creator with a clever pass inside Evra, and when Gerrard was tripped after reaching the ball first, referee Alan Wiley again got the big decision right and pointed to the spot.

Gerrard tucked the penalty beyond Van der Sar, leaving Old Trafford stunned at the strength of Liverpool's fightback. United, inevitably, penned Liverpool back after the break - but found the visitors in grimly determined mood.

Liverpool were fortunate to escape after 62 minutes when Ronaldo, a subdued figure throughout, found Rooney at the far post and his header flew across the face of goal with Tevez unable to apply the finishing touch.

Ferguson went for broke with 18 minutes left, making a triple substitution as he sent on Dimitar Berbatov, Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes for Anderson, Carrick and Park.

But there was barely time for his changes to make a difference as United were reduced to 10 men and went further behind in the space of seconds.

Vidic, who was also sent off at Anfield earlier this season, had suffered a harrowing afternoon, and once again his control was poor as he allowed Gerrard a clear run on goal. He chose to haul Gerrard back and the red card that followed was inevitable.

As a stunned Old Trafford came to terms with that, Aurelio poured salt in the wounds with a superb 25-yard free-kick that left Van der Sar rooted to the spot.

The stadium was deserting rapidly as Liverpool inflicted one final piece of punishment on United, substitute Dossena lifting a stylish finish over Van der Sar.

As Liverpool's players celebrated a landmark victory, there was only misery at The Theatre of Dreams - for once an inappropriate label for the home of the champions.

Match Highlights:

Manchester United 2-0 Inter Milan

2009-03-12T15:43:00.002+05:30

Sir Alex Ferguson emerged victorious in the showdown with his old rival Jose Mourinho as Manchester United survived a nervous night against Inter Milan to reach the last eight of the Champions League.

Nemanja Vidic powered in Ryan Giggs' corner to give United the lead in the tie after only four minutes, and Cristiano Ronaldo rose to head home Wayne Rooney's cross three minutes after the interval.

But in between those two strikes, Mourinho's Inter were left to regret a succession of missed opportunities to grab a crucial away goal and put the skids under United's bid for an historic haul of five trophies.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic hit the bar with a first-half header and Dejan Stankovic missed a glorious opportunity as Inter failed to take advantage of uncharacteristic slackness in possession and defence from United.

There was still time for substitute Adriano to strike the woodwork again after Ronaldo's goal, but this was United's night and their bid to rewrite the record books is still on course.

Mourinho prowled the Old Trafford technical area for virtually the entire 90 minutes as he held out hopes of a repeat of his famous 2004 victory with Porto that sent United out of the Champions League - but it was all in vain as Inter fell victim to their own generosity in front of goal and the more clinical finishing of their opponents.

Inter dominated for spells, but there was an inevitability that they would be punished for their failure to score - and so it proved as United delivered the telling blows in an engrossing battle.

United never touched the heights, but once again they proved that they have perfected the habit of winning even when their best form eludes them.

Indeed, the result extended their unbeaten record in major European competitions to 21 - breaking the 37-year-old mark of Juventus.

Ferguson will be elated with the victory against a dangerous adversary in Mourinho, who was made to suffer the taunts of an Old Trafford gallery that has suffered at his hands before.

But the former Chelsea boss remained defiant to the end, standing alone on the touchline, but turning to congratulate the United backroom staff at the final whistle.

United will need to produce better as the champions of Europe continue on what they hope will be the road to Rome and another final, but they deserve the utmost admiration for the resilience they displayed in grinding out a priceless win.

The tie was played out against the backdrop of the Mourinho factor, and his mere presence guaranteed an atmosphere of pure theatre around a packed Old Trafford.

Man Utd. centre back Nemaja Vidic powers home Giggs' corner.

Vidic was recalled after his first leg suspension to bolster United's defensive resources, but it was his threat at set pieces that reaped dividends.

Mourinho, the great defensive organiser, will have been mortified to see the Serbian, hardly a secret weapon on these occasions, rise almost unchallenged to head Giggs' corner past Julio Cesar.

And yet, instead of settling the early nerves United may have been experiencing, the holders failed to build on Vidic's goal and barely survived a harrowing spell of pressure from Inter.

Ibrahimovic is one of the great enigmas of European football, often failing to justify his glowing reputation when the stakes are at their highest.

And he should have drawn Inter level after 28 minutes when he stole in unmarked on to the end of Maicon's free-kick, only to send a downward header against the bar with Edwin van der Sar beaten.

United were careless in possession, which did not help their cause with Inter growing in confidence as the half progressed.

Stankovic's long-range shot was turned to safety by Van der Sar before United relieved the pressure to almost grab that crucial second goal eight minutes before the interval.

Rooney's instant pass sent John O'Shea clear in the area, but Julio Cesar raced off his line to make the block.

Inter ended an absorbing opening half in the ascendancy, with Stankovic adding to the catalogue of missed opportunities when he somehow steered Ibrahimovic's pass over the top from point-blank range.

Mario Balotelli's clever pass then released Ibrahimovic for a volley that beat Van der Sar but flew inches wide.

Mourinho must have felt a real surge of optimism at the start of the second half, and attempted to inject fresh impetus into his side replacing the sadly pedestrian Patrick Vieira with Sulley Muntari.

If he was upbeat about over-turning United again, it was a feeling that did not last for long as Ronaldo headed the second goal United craved after 48 minutes.

Rooney's cross was an open invitation for Ronaldo and he rose to flick an emphatic finish past the helpless Cesar.

The scoreline was a harsh reflection on the contribution Inter had made to the game, but they paid the ultimate price for their failure to make a lengthy period of supremacy count.

The burly Adriano replaced Stankovic in what amounted to a final throw of the dice from Mourinho, and he almost handed the Italian champions a lifeline when he stretched to turn Esteban Cambiasso's cross against the post.

United were being offered more space as Inter went for broke, and Cesar needed to be at his best again to deny Rooney, recovering well to block Dimitar Berbatov's shot after he was set up by Giggs.

Ronaldo tested Inter's defiant keeper one final time with a long-range effort, but by then the fight had drained out of Inter and United were on cruise control to the quarter-finals.

Manchester United to sign Ribery?

2009-03-02T22:26:00.003+05:30

Manchester United has emerged as the latest club to be linked with a move for Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery, thanks primarily to statements by the 25-year-old French international's agent, Alain Migliaccio.

Migliaccio has claimed in an interview with German newspaper Bild that United boss Sir Alex Ferguson would move for Ribery should the Old Trafford club choose to cash-in and allow Cristiano Ronaldo to move to Real Madrid this summer.

Ribery has been in excellent form for the Germany champions this year scoring six goals and setting up three from 16 games, form which has seen him linked with moves to a host of high profile clubs from England, Italy and Spain.

Last week Barcelona had emerged as the club in pole position to sign Ribery after statements from Migliaccio which suggested that a deal was all but in place for his client to sign a four-year deal at the Camp Nou.

But Migliaccio has now suggested that Old Trafford could be Ribery's destination, telling Bild: ''If Manchester United sell Cristiano Ronaldo, Sir Alex Ferguson would like to cover that transfer with Ribery's signature.''

Ribery is contracted to Bayern until 2011 and is enjoying his football at the Allianz Arena along with considerable personal and team success; last season Ribery won the German league and cup double and was named as Germany and France's football of the year.

However, the player has also said that he would be surprised if he saw out the end of his contract.

With presidential elections at Real Madrid this summer it seems inevitable that Ronaldo will be again linked with a move to the Bernebeu as he was ahead of the current season.

Whether Sir Alex Ferguson is able - or as determined - to retain the services of the reigning world and European player of the year should Madrid again declare an interest in the Portuguese could lead to a wave of high profile transfer activity.

Bayern Munich Winger Frank Ribery

Manchester United Win the Carling Cup Final!

2009-03-01T23:51:00.004+05:30

Manchester United emerged triumphant in a penalty shoot-out once again to lift a major trophy as they beat Tottenham 4-1 on penalties to win the Carling Cup after a 0-0 draw in extra-time.

A Carling Cup final triumph over Tottenham may not quite have the same resonance as the Champions League success they enjoyed at the Luzhniki Stadium but it was enough to maintain hopes of an unprecedented quintuple.

Indeed, taking into account last season's phenomenal achievements, United now have five trophies on their mantelpiece, including the Community Shield, and their hunger is some way off being sated.

Goalkeeper Ben Foster saved Jamie O'Hara's opening spot-kick for Spurs, and David Bentley's miss allowed Brazilian midfielder Anderson to slot home the decisive kick.

The Penalty Shoot-Out

It was something of a surprise that Sir Alex Ferguson should name Rio Ferdinand as skipper. The England defender had not featured for a minute of United's run to Wembley, with Nemanja Vidic having more of a claim on a starting spot.

As it turned out, United were glad of Ferdinand's presence as their defence came under increasing pressure from a Spurs outfit that started slowly, then gradually improved as the opening period wore on.

Although Luka Modric enjoyed plenty of possession in his role as playmaker, Aaron Lennon created more problems. Lennon had plenty to prove, especially to those, including the watching England coach Fabio Capello, who feel the winger's delivery is not good enough.

Lennon showed he was up for the contest by fizzing past Patrice Evra before drilling a low cross to the edge of the six-yard box where Roman Pavlyuchenko might well have completed the notable achievement of scoring in every round if Ferdinand had not slid in to clear.

The flying Yorkshireman had switched wings by the time he floated over another cross for Pavlyuchenko that invited a firm header. Unfortunately the striker was unable to test Foster, who had won the battle with Tomasz Kuszczak to replace Edwin van der Sar.

Until he was helped off in extra-time, Lennon was the brightest attacking player on view, overshadowing a United strike force kept at bay by Ledley King and Michael Dawson.

In the absence of Jonathan Woodgate, who pulled out with an Achilles injury, King was superb, a throwback to the days when he was such a key figure for England under Sven-Goran Eriksson.

In his first major final Darron Gibson came mightily close to putting the Red Devils in front. However, while his shot was too much for Heurelho Gomes, it also flashed wide of the Brazilian's left-hand post.

Ferdinand was also a mere couple of inches away with a dipping volley that nestled on the roof of Tottenham's net. Nani had the best chance though, letting fly with a snap-shot that threatened to creep in at the corner, only for Gomes to get down to make a fine save at the near post.

Unfortunately for Pavlyuchenko, he could not locate his radar at half-time. He skied a terrible free-kick way over the crossbar and while his effort could not be faulted, it was no surprise when he made way for O'Hara.

Jermaine Jenas was much closer when he tried his luck, although United had regained a semblance of authority in midfield, where Anderson's presence left Carlos Tevez on his own up front.

Tevez had gone close with an instinctive back-heel as an off-target Jonny Evans effort flew towards him and his industry matched that for which Wayne Rooney - ruled out by a virus - is so renowned.

Up to that point, the major let-down was Cristiano Ronaldo, who just could not get into the game and was booked for diving for the second weekend running. On this occasion, the FIFA World Player of the Year was unlucky. It is debatable whether King's penalty-box challenge was a foul. There was, however, no debate over actual contact.

Given Joe Hart, now second-choice goalkeeper at Manchester City, was in the squad that tackled Spain last month, Capello was probably more delighted than Harry Redknapp to see Foster keep out a goal-bound Lennon effort 20 minutes from time.

It was the nearest either side came to breaking the deadlock until the final seconds, when Ronaldo finally broke free of his shackles and crashed a brute of a shot against the post. Tevez glanced an extra-time header just wide, with Darren Bent drawing an excellent feet-first save out of Foster later on.

But there was no salvation from the penalty lottery which both teams have profited from over the past 12 months.

This time, it was United's turn. Foster emerged the hero with a save to deny O'Hara and Bentley's miss, combined with Anderson making it four out of four from the spot for the Red Devils, meant the trophy headed to Manchester.

Vicotrious Manchester United skippter Rio Ferdinand lifts the Carling Cup

Inter Milan 0-0 Manchester United

2009-02-25T15:32:00.002+05:30

Manchester United dominated for much of this lively Champions League last-16 clash but had to settle for a goalless draw with Inter Milan at the San Siro.

A Cristiano Ronaldo bullet header was well saved after four minutes and Ryan Giggs then missed when clean through.

Inter were much-improved in the second half as Zlatan Ibrahimovic burst to life, and after dummying for Adriano the Brazilian shot tamely wide. A new-look United defence stood strong as Inter pushed for a late winner.

Old adversaries Sir Alex Ferguson and Jose Mourinho started the week by trading friendly jibes, with the United boss disputing claims his side would play defensively, emphasising the importance of away goals.

With Nemanja Vidic suspended, and Gary Neville and Wes Brown injured, Ferguson's hopes of improving on a measly record of one win in 12 games against Mourinho rose slightly with Jonny Evans and John O'Shea declared fit an hour before kick-off.

But the Inter boss, without Patrick Vieira, Marco Materazzi and Walter Samuel, might have felt vindicated on hearing that his opponents were leaving Wayne Rooney on the bench with Dimitar Berbatov playing alone up front.

However, if either team was guilty of playing cagey football it was Mourinho's side, who were off the pace for much of the first half. With Giggs and Michael Carrick dominant in the middle in the opening exchanges it was the visitors who settled the quickest, with Ronaldo in the thick of the action.

The Portuguese winger had already gone close with a free-kick, and after four minutes his rocket header from a Giggs corner was brilliantly saved by the left arm of Julio Cesar.

While Inter's attackers were struggling to make friends with the ball, their defenders were faring little better and were lucky to get away with a Giggs through-ball to Berbatov, who failed to cross to the unmarked Ji-Sung Park.

A shockingly-timed Nelson Rivas tackle then allowed Giggs to squirm his way though again but the Welshman could only blast the ball at the over-worked keeper.

The home support became increasingly agitated as the sea of red piled forward, with Ronaldo just inches away from opening the scoring with yet another free-kick. He then headed just wide.

Ibrahimovic, misfiring until the 40th minute, pulled the ball back for Adriano but Edwin van der Sar sniffed out the danger. The Inter bench even got in on the action just before the interval as reserve keeper Francesco Toldo was booked for dissent.

The Inter manager was the first to change tactics, the Colombian Rivaz making way for Ivan Cordoba, and it seemed to rouse his team.

Esteban Cambiasso crossed from the left and, after an Ibrahimovic dummy, Adriano's shot flew high and wide. The Brazilian was soon shouting for a penalty but his theatrics that followed a Rio Ferdinand hand on his shoulder did not fool the referee.

Ronaldo after a close miss

Manchester United 2-1 Blackburn Rovers

2009-02-22T10:10:00.003+05:30

Manchester United moved eight points clear at the top of the Premier League after a hard-fought win over Blackburn.

Wayne Rooney lashed in a shot to put United ahead before a precise Roque Santa Cruz finish levelled matters. Jonny Evans' header was controversially disallowed for the home side before Ryan Nelsen hit the post for Rovers.

Cristiano Ronaldo powered in a superb free-kick for United's winner, and Morten Gamst Pedersen was denied a penalty late on for the visitors. The Norwegian winger looked to have been pulled back by Rafael Da Silva when he was clean through on goal and the decision not to award a spot-kick provoked a furious response from Blackburn boss Sam Allardyce.

But given Rovers are third from bottom and two points away from safety, Allardyce's side can be encouraged by their display, troubling a United side that has been sweeping aside all before them in recent weeks.

Blackburn also have the honour of becoming the first side to score against United since 8 November, 2008 when Sir Alex Ferguson's side were beaten by Arsenal.

With United playing Inter Milan on Tuesday, Edwin van der Sar and centre back Nemanja Vidic were left on the bench with Tomasz Kuszczak and Evans left to fill the key roles, a policy that almost backfired on the Scot as Blackburn threatened to steal a point.

Not that there appeared any likelihood of that in the early stages of the game.

Blackburn were sloppy in possession and their defence was creaking as Nelsen hooked a Ronaldo cross away at the far post with Rooney waiting to tap in. Patrice Evra put a follow-up strike just wide as United patiently passed and probed in the knowledge a goal would come.

Sure enough it did when Nani curled in a low cross, and although the outstretched leg of Nelsen got a touch to the ball, it was not enough, and Rooney pounced to score from close range.

But Rovers regrouped and were soon level as United conceded only their 11th league goal this season and the first in 15 games. Andre Ooijer stole the ball from Nani and slid a pass through to Santa Cruz, who rode a Rio Ferdinand challenge, rounded keeper Kuszczak and slotted in.

The goal gave Blackburn an injection of confidence and their closing down became sharper as United's play fell away.

Evans thought he had restored the home side's lead with a header from a dubiously awarded corner, only for his effort to be ruled out for a Ronaldo push on Nelsen.

The New Zealand defender was soon in the thick of the action again, though this time in the United box, as his first-time shot came back off the woodwork, with El-Hadji Diouf's effort from the rebound saved by Kuszczak.

Ronaldo punished the visitors for the miss when he angled in a free-kick from just outside the left edge of the area with a stunning strike. The Portuguese had earlier been booked for diving and might not have been on pitch had he also been carded for kicking out at David Dunn.

Blackburn will also feel aggrieved that they did not get a penalty when Pedersen went down in the closing stages.

Match Preview- Manchester United vs. Balckburn Rovers

2009-02-21T09:18:00.003+05:30

Manchester United look to extend both their lead at the summit of the Premier League and their record breaking run of clean sheets as they take on Blackburn Rovers at Old Trafford.

Blackburn Rovers are desperate for three points to lift them out of the relegation zone. February 2006 was the last time Rovers triumphed over United when they won a 4-3 thriller at Ewood Park.

United on the other hand are heading steadily to a third consecutive League title, with 9 back to back victories, their last draw being a goal-less one against Tottenham back on the 13th of December, 2008.

Manchester United team news
Wayne Rooney will start for Manchester United on Saturday after making his comeback from a hamstring injury as a goalscoring substitute against Fulham on Wednesday and Sir Alex Ferguson intends to find out whether the striker is fit enough to face Inter Milan in the Champions League on Tuesday.

More changes are expected as well, with Ferguson set to call on Ryan Giggs, Darren Fletcher and Rafael, with Edwin van der Sar looking to set a new European record with a 15th consecutive clean sheet. John O'Shea (heel) is a minor doubt.

Blackburn Rovers team news
Defender Chris Samba is suspended for Blackburn's match against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Saturday evening.

The centre-back, who scored the injury-time equaliser against Coventry last weekend which kept Rovers in the FA Cup, has reached five bookings for the season and so must sit out one match.

On-loan right-back Danny Simpson is ineligible to play against his parent club.

Man To Watch: Wayne Rooney
The Englishman made a spectacular comeback against Fulham midweek, scoring with one his first few touches after a hamstring injury that kept him out for 3-4 weeks.

Match Preview- Manchester United vs. Fulham

2009-02-18T18:34:00.006+05:30

Manchester United can move five points clear of Liverpool, as they use up their match in hand over the Merseysiders.

Sir Alex Ferguson's men have now kept 13 successive clean sheets to establish a new British record. They are currently doing the best in the league according to the form guide, which is based on points attained in the last six matches, with a perfect record in the last six matches.

Fulham on the other hand are 12th in the table, having taken just 6 points from the available 18 with 3 draws, 2 losses and just a single victory.

Man United team news:
Wayne Rooney is back after a seven-match absence. The England striker suffered a hamstring injury against Wigan a month ago but has now fully recovered and will be part of a much-changed United squad.

Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, Carlos Tevez, Michael Carrick and Dimitar Berbatov are among the big names who return following the FA Cup win at Derby County, while Edwin van der Sar looks to complete an incredible 14th consecutive Barclays Premier League clean sheet.

Fulham team news:
Roy Hodgson will give late fitness tests to Paul Konchesky and Andy Johnson.Both players have been struggling with muscle strains but will be given every chance to prove their fitness.

Dickson Etuhu is still out with the knee injury he sustained against Wigan, meaning on-loan Inter Milan midfielder Olivier Dacourt should continue in midfield.

Man To Watch: Edwin Van der Saar
The Dutchman has now gone 1,212 minutes without conceeding a goal, a U.K. record. He still needs a 170 minutes without a goal to beat the European record, set by Dany Verlinden, who didn't concede a goal for 1,390 minutes for Club Bruges in the Belgium league between 3rd March and 26th September 1990. Van der Saar may not contribute much during the rest of the match but he has made some particularly brilliant saves, some extremely crucial ones, during United's rise to the top of the league.

Predicted Scoreline: Manchester United 2- Fulham 0

Manchester United goal-keeper Edwin Van der Saar

Manchester United 1-0 Everton

2009-02-01T01:15:00.002+05:30

Manchester United turned up the pressure on the Premier League's chasing pack and re-wrote the record books with victory over Everton at Old Trafford.

Cristiano Ronaldo's 44th-minute penalty - awarded after Mikel Arteta fouled Michael Carrick - put them five points ahead of Liverpool and Chelsea before they meet at Anfield on Sunday.

And in recording a 12th successive top-flight clean sheet, goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar eclipsed the previous league record of 1,104 minutes without conceding a goal, set by Reading's Steve Death in 1979.

United deserved their victory and could have won by more, but they were made to work for the win by an Everton side displaying all their trademark defensive resilience.

Evrton keeper Tim Howard saved well from Ji-Sung Park and Carlos Tevez, while Ronaldo also hit the post from 20 yards in the first half. Everton - admittedly stripped of almost all of their recognised attacking strength - created few openings and Van der Sar rarely looked in danger of missing out on his place in history.

Boss Sir Alex Ferguson can now relax after another efficient rather than spectacular display, and watch his two closest rivals go into combat on Sunday knowing victory is essential if they are to keep United firmly in their sights.

Carrick orchestrated United's performance in midfield and Tevez was busy in attack, but in the end they had to be grateful for a narrow victory. United were presented with the opportunity to move away from the pursuing pack in the title race - but they faced an Everton side lifted by influential pair Tim Cahill and Marouane Fellaini passing fitness tests.

The first 45 minutes took the predictable shape of United working all their attacking options, but running into Everton's blue wall of defiance. Former United goalkeeper Howard was in early action, making a last-ditch save to turn away Park's cross and then blocking Tevez's effort from only eight yards with his legs.

Ronaldo came close to piercing the Everton rearguard after 25 minutes when his low shot took a deflection, only to strike a post and roll agonisingly across the goal-line to safety. Everton's best form of response was the left-sided partnership of Steven Pienaar and Leighton Baines. They worked a succession of promising openings, but the quality of delivery was poor and Van der Sar was rarely troubled.

The breakthrough came only a minute before half-time, and in the most frustrating manner possible for Everton as Arteta conceded a needless penalty. Everton's Spanish midfield man flicked out a leg at Carrick as he raced into the area, and even though referee Mark Halsey let play progress, he then awarded a penalty when United gained no immediate advantage.

Ronaldo scored comfortably from the spot - and in the process put an entirely different complexion on the second half.

United were denied what looked an even more clear-cut penalty than the one they were awarded when Carrick was once again brought down, this time by Joleon Lescott, two minutes after the break but Halsey waved away their justified appeals.

Tevez had been an industrious figure for United, and he twice threatened to grab the crucial second goal, firing narrowly over then forcing a low save out of Howard from 20 yards. Van der Sar had been largely unemployed, but he was in the action on the hour when he held on to Arteta's low free-kick from fully 30 yards.

Everton needed to find a cutting edge from somewhere, and with 23 minutes left Moyes decided it should come in the shape of substitute Victor Anichebe, who replaced Fellaini. But it was still United posing all the serious questions and Howard needed to be alert to turn Tevez's deflected free-kick over the top.

Everton tried to press as time ran out, but they were lightweight in attack and United ended in the ascendancy, with Howard again saving well from Howard. It was not United at their free-flowing best, but they will be satisfield to succeed against tough opponents who have taken points off Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal in recent times.

Once again, I was right about the man to watch. Ronaldo scored a comfortable penalty and looked threatening throughout the match.

Match Preview- Manchester United vs. Everton

2009-01-30T21:59:00.003+05:30

Manchester United can move five points clear of Chelsea and Liverpool, with the latter two not playing until Sunday.

Everton have been involved in three 1-1 draws in a row, two against rivals Liverpool and the latest against Arsenal on Wednesday. Those matches were played at a frenetic pace, and David Moyes will hope that his players will have recovered in time for another daunting encounter, this time against the Premier League leaders.

Leaders United broke the Premier League record for clean sheets in their 5-0 win over West Bromwich Albion on Tuesday as they completed a run of 11 top-flight matches without conceding a single goal. They are in fine form, having had six consecutive victories in the League.

Man United Team News:
Wayne Rooney will not figure for Manchester United against Everton on Saturday, having picked up a hamstring injury against Wigan earlier this month - although the striker is expected to return to action at West Ham United next Sunday. Patrice Evra and Nani could also return next weekend, while Ferguson reports no fresh injury worries from Tuesday's 5-0 win at West Bromwich Albion.

Neither Rio Ferdinand nor Wes Brown have suffered any reaction to their comebacks while young Brazilian full-back Fabio is also in contention as United look to complete an unprecedented 12th top-flight clean sheet in a row.

Everton Team News:
Everton could be without key midfielders Tim Cahill and Marouane Fellaini at Old Trafford. Cahill, who has scored four goals in eight starts as a makeshift striker, injured his right foot in Wednesday's 1-1 draw with Arsenal. Although X-rays have revealed only severe bruising and no break, he remains a doubt to face United. Fellaini injured a shin against the Gunners and manager David Moyes will not risk either player if there is any doubt. This paranoia comes from the fact that they are still without an established striker, having lost all to injury, making them rely on Cahill and Fellaini for goals.

Man To Watch:Cristiano Ronaldo
I personally had a tough time deciding between Ronaldo and Tim Cahill, the Australian being Everton's top scorer this season, but the fact that Cahill was doubtfull made me opt for Ronaldo. It looks like the Portuguese winger may have rediscover the form that inspired him to 44 goals last season, putting 2 into the back of the net during the midweek match against West Brom.

Tim Cahill

West Brom 0 - 5 Manchester United

2009-01-28T09:46:00.004+05:30

Manchester United made it a record 11 Premier League clean sheets as they thrashed West Brom at The Hawthorns.

Dimitar Berbatov's angled finish put them ahead after 22 minutes, with Albion's Paul Robinson sent off before half-time for fouling Ji-Sung Park. Carlos Tevez tapped in seconds before the break after Scott Carson dropped Ryan Giggs' free-kick, and Nemanja Vidic headed home a third on the hour.

Cristiano Ronaldo then struck twice in eight minutes to seal United's win. It gave Sir Alex Ferguson's side a three-point lead ahead of Liverpool in the title race, with the added bonus of topping up their goal difference in style.

United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar has now gone 1,032 minutes without conceding, beating the previous record set by Chelsea's Petr Cech five seasons ago. Albion and their fans were furious with the performance of referee Rob Styles, particularly his decision to send off Robinson, but the brutal reality was that they were outclassed by a United side that looked in ominously good order.

United were lifted by the return of Rio Ferdinand after a back injury - but he was rarely required as the champions strolled to victory. Jay Simpson looked lively early on for Albion, but United always carried the greater threat and it was no surprise when they carved out the opener.

Michael Carrick exchanged passes with Berbatov and the Bulgarian completed the formalities with a powerful angled finish past Carson. Tevez should have doubled United's lead three minutes later, but he turned Ronaldo's cross just wide at the near post. Ronaldo was also guilty of squandering a glorious opening when he chipped over Carson when clean through, but his effort rolled wide.

The huge task facing Albion was made even tougher five minutes before the interval when Robinson was shown a red card by referee Styles for a meaty challenge on Park. It did not look like he had his foot raised and he appeared to get the ball, but Styles saw differently and enraged The Hawthorns by sending off the experienced defender.

The game was effectively over as a contest seconds before the interval when Carson dropped Giggs' free-kick at the feet of Tevez six yards out, the Argentine slotting home a simple finish. Albion's last hope of a lifeline disappeared when Ryan Donk's powerful shot struck an upright and rebounded to safety after 57 minutes.

United got their third on the hour when Vidic arrived to power a corner from Giggs past Carson. It was now a case of damage limitation for Albion - but United were not in the mood to allow them even that small mercy.

Nemanja Vidic

The Serbian Center-back has now scored 4 goals in the Premier League this season

The fourth came after 65 minutes when Tevez released Giggs, who timed his pass to perfection for Ronaldo to score with a precise right-foot finish. Ronaldo was on target again eight minutes later when Berbatov, who looked suspiciously offside, played him in to beat Carson through his legs.

It was time for some changes from United, with Ferguson giving a Premier League debut to new Serbian signing Zoran Tosic. It was a comfortable night for United - but not for rivals Liverpool and Chelsea who play on Wednesday.

Match Highlights

Manchester United in Carling Cup Final

2009-01-21T14:46:00.004+05:30

Manchester United booked their place in the Carling Cup final despite being given a late scare by Derby County.

The Rams led 1-0 from the first leg but a fierce Nani strike levelled the tie and defensive errors let John O'Shea and Carlos Tevez put United in charge. Derby improved after the break and Giles Barnes replied from the spot when Paul Green was fouled in the area.

Cristiano Ronaldo's penalty seemed to have sealed United's win but Barnes' superb free-kick set up a tense finale. It is United who have reached Wembley, where they will take on Burnley or Tottenham, but the Championship strugglers still deserve praise for the spirit they showed at Old Trafford when the game looked dead and buried.

It also emphasised how there could have been a very different outcome had Derby made the most of their opportunities in the first leg. The Rams had won that game courtesy of Kris Commons' strike but they wasted several other chances and their failure to take more than a one-goal cushion to Old Trafford was always going to make their task in the second leg a difficult one.

Things began promisingly enough for Derby when Commons hustled Darron Gibson off the ball and fired in a rasping shot that United keeper Ben Foster was grateful to see fly wide.

But, once United settled and began to probe the Rams defence, they found gaping holes and took full advantage.

On 16 minutes, Nani was allowed to pick up the ball on the half-way line and advance unchallenged towards the penalty area before letting fly with a ferocious shot that Roy Carroll got a hand to but could not keep out of his net.

Things got worse for Derby six minutes later when Gary Teale stepped up to try to catch O'Shea offside but only succeeded in giving the Republic of Ireland defender time to pick his spot for his first goal this season.

And their defence disintegrated altogether on 34 minutes when Giggs fed Rafael with a quick corner and the Brazilian whipped in a curling cross that gave the unmarked Tevez the easy task of heading home from close range.

The tie looked done and dusted at that point and United, understandably, took their foot off the pedal after the break.

Carroll had to claw away a free-kick by Giggs, who had been in vintage form early on, immediately after the restart but from that point onwards it was all about Derby.

The Premier League leaders were not exactly under pressure but they were no longer threatening, while the Rams went close with Rob Hulse heading over and Green missing the target with a volley.

Things got even more interesting when defender Jonny Evans picked up an injury with 15 minutes left but was forced to play on as United had used up all three of their substitutes. Evans was clearly struggling and that was a factor when he clipped Green in the box with 10 minutes left, allowing Barnes to drill home from the spot.

United responded well and Ronaldo, who had come off the bench, appeared to wrap things up with a penalty of his own after Tevez was brought down by Carroll.But Barnes had other ideas and his superb free-kick in injury-time brought Derby within one goal of forcing extra-time.

It was not to be but the night was still far less straightforward than United might have anticipated at the interval. To add to United's problems, Rafael and Anderson also picked up injuries and could face long lay-offs at a crucial stage of the season.

Update: Manchester United are now top of the table!

2009-01-20T10:18:00.003+05:30

After Manchester United beat Bolton Wanderers at the Reebok stadium on Saturday, Liverpool required nothing short of a victory as they hosted Everton in the 205th Merseyside Derby.

It looked like Rafa Benitez's men might regain the lead, albeit having played one match more than United, but a tough Everton side got a late equalizer to draw the game 1-1, allowing United to stay on the top of the table, but on a marginally better goal difference.

After sustaining a period of pressure, Liverpool scored first with Gerard opened the scoring in the 68th minute with a 30 yard low drive into goal. Everton doubled their resilience, attacking down both wings in an effort to break down Liverpool's defence, one that hadn't lost a single home game this season.

Their defiance was rewarde in the 85th when Arteta crossed the ball in from a free-kick on the left side into the six yard box where Tim Cahill, who was astonishingly unmarked, managed to flick the ball on through a header into goal.

United now have a game in hand against Fulham at Old Trafford which they play in a mideweek fixture on the 17th of February.

Bolton Wanderers 0 - 1 Manchester United

2009-01-17T23:41:00.006+05:30

Dimitar Berbatov's late winner sent champions Manchester United to the top of the Premier League table for the first time this season.

Berbatov headed home from close range after good work from Carlos Tevez on the stroke of 90 minutes as the game looked to be heading towards a draw. The result however speaks nothing of the one-sided match, with United enjoying the majority of possession and chances.

For the preceding 89 minutes United had been thwarted by an in form Jussi Jaaskelainen. The Bolton keeper saved superbly from two Cristiano Ronaldo free-kicks and also a header from the United winger.

United's win saw them equal Chelsea's record, set in 2004-05, of 10 consecutive clean sheets in the Premier League, as they go for a third consecutive title. Long-time leaders Liverpool will now have to beat Everton in Monday's Merseyside derby to return to the top, though Sir Alex Ferguson's side will then have a game in hand.

United were missing Rio Ferdinand, Wayne Rooney and Patrice Evra but were boosted by Tevez and Jonny Evans both passing late fitness tests. In the opening exchanges United dominated possession, while Bolton relied on set-pieces and long balls to trouble the visitors.

Bolton started with new loan signing Ariza Makukula up front and his physical presence troubled United in the air though this also cause him get an unnecessary yellow card. Fabrice Muamba also provided muscle in midfield and he saw a long-range effort tipped over the bar by Edwin Van der Sar.

It took until the 35th minute for the first real chance of the game when Ronaldo's header was beaten out by Jaaskelainen. The Bolton keeper was called into action twice again before the half-time break, first superbly stopping Ronaldo's fierce, low 20-yard free-kick and then routinely keeping out Anderson's long-range effort.

Cristiano Ronald taking a free-kick

If Ronaldo troubled Bolton with his free-kicks, he was less assured with his final pass, while Tevez struggled to hold onto the ball up front. Anderson and Michael Carrick were also erratic with their distribution, though towards the end Carrick played some superb balls to Ronaldo, and in truth United lacked the guile that Rooney provides.

Ronaldo again went close with a free-kick while Bolton offered very little in terms of a fight, seemingly content to settle for a single point. With 17 minutes remaining Ferguson sent in the cavalry in the form of Ryan Giggs, making his 550th league appearance, and Paul Scholes.

The veteran duo sparked United into life as they went in search of the vital goal. Tevez went close with a header while Ronaldo also saw another powerful free-kick kept out by Jaaskelainen.

Just as it looked as if the game would end goalless, Tevez escaped the attention of two defenders before crossing for Berbatov, six yards out, to head powerfully past Jaaskelainen to win the game for United.

As I had predicted, Berbatov did score, if in the depth. He was not up to his usual best however, with Ronaldo playing an excellent game and Tevez showing why he should be offered a new contract.

Match Preview- Bolton Wanderers vs. Manchester United

2009-01-16T17:30:00.002+05:30

Manchester have the chance to go top of the table for the first time this season, albeit it might only be for forty-eight hours, as they travel to The Reebok Stadium in search of a fifth consecutive league win.

Bolton on the other hand come of three consecutive losses, having failed to score in all three of them. They will have a hard job breaking down United's defense, one that hasn't conceded in the last nine league games.

Manchester United trail Liverpool by a meager two points and a victory would see them go ahead by one point, until league leaders Liverpool take on Everton away from home in the Merseyside Derby.

In the fixture last year Bolton had a shock 1-0 victory with Nicholas Anelka scoring. He has of course moved on and now plays for Chelsea.

Bolton Team News
Captain Kevin Nolan is still serving his suspension but right-back Gretar Steinsson returns from suspension and is available for manager Gary Megson. Centre-back Gary Cahill could return. The 23-year-old is almost fully recovered from a hip injury that had him sidelined for three matches. Midfielder Gavin McCann (broken toe) and striker Johan Elmander (hamstring) will miss the match after sustaining injuries at Arsenal last week. They will however be able to field ex-Zenit St Petersburg defender Sebastien Puygrenier, their latest signing.

Manchester United Team News:
Manager Sir Alex Ferguson will be without left-back Patrice Evra whom he had just welcomed back from suspension. The Frenchman suffered a foot injury and will be sidelined for three weeks. The position will be most likely filled by John O'Shea while Johny Evans will continue to partner Nemanja Vidic's in the central defense as Rio Ferdinad, after suffering a from back spasm prior to the match against Chelsea, has been made to rest by Sir Alex. He will also be without the services of Wayne Rooney who, having suffered a hamstring injury in the midweek match against Wigan, limped off the pitch after just seven minutes. He too will be sidelined for three weeks.

Man To Watch: Dimitar Berbatov.
He's scored twice in the last three league matches, having scored just four overall league-wise. I feel he's going to show everyone why Manchester United paid £30.75m for him. Also with Rooney injured, Berbatov is the leading striker, with Argentine Carlos Tevez having sat on the bench for quite a bit of the season.

Predicted Scoreline: Bolton 0- Manchester United 2

Dimitar Berbatov

Manchester United 1 - 0 Wigan

2009-01-15T23:30:00.003+05:30

Manchester United closed the gap on Premier League leaders Liverpool to two points - with a game in hand - as they struggled to victory against Wigan.

Wayne Rooney slid in Cristiano Ronaldo's cross in the first minute, but limped off with a hamstring injury five minutes later. Substitute Carlos Tevez then missed United's best chance after rounding Latics keeper Chris Kirkland.

Wigan had plenty of possession but could not carve out any clear chances. United were not at their most impressive, but manager Sir Alex Ferguson will simply be delighted to have built on the 3-0 win against title rivals Chelsea with another vital three points to move into second place in then table.

And United's defence stretched their impressive recent record to nine league games without conceding a goal, just one behind Chelsea's record of 10. Wigan, for their part, performed creditably after going behind so early on, confirming their development under Steve Bruce.

Ferguson made five changes from the side that beat Chelsea so comfortably on Sunday with Gary Neville, Patrice Evra, Ryan Giggs, Darren Fletcher and Ji-Sung Park making way for Rafael Da Silva, John O'Shea, Michael Carrick, Paul Scholes and Nani - and they carried on where they had left off by taking the lead inside a minute.

Newly crowned Fifa World Player of the Year for 2008 Ronaldo escaped down the right flank, and his cross was the perfect invitation for Rooney to steer in the simplest of finishes from close range.

It was Rooney's last meaningful action as he fell victim with a hamstring strain five minutes later and limped off, to be replaced Tevez. And the Argentine should have doubled United's lead after 25 minutes. He was sent clear by John O'Shea's clearance, but his touch let him down as he rounded Kirkland and the chance was lost.

Wigan were barely seen as an attacking force, and it took a brave challenge from Mario Melchiot to block Paul Scholes's goal-bound drive. The visitors' only clear opening came four minutes before the interval, when Ryan Taylor shot wildly off target after finding space in the United area. The visitors needed to increase the tempo after the break, but they only succeeded in picking up three yellow cards in quick succession.

Titus Bramble and Paul Scharner were booked for fouls on Dimitar Berbatov and Tevez, while Amr Zaki was cautioned for breaking too soon from a defensive wall. Wigan then enjoyed their first sustained spell of pressure, with United forced to defend and goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar saving well from Maynor Figueroa's volley - a threat caused by his own poor throw.

The home side's display had been strangely lacklustre in the second half, and Wigan were being given plenty of encouragement in their belief that they could fashion an equaliser. Bruce's side almost drew level with nine minutes left when Antonio Valencia's fierce rising drive flew just inches over. Berbatov almost provided the hosts with the breathing space they badly needed, curling a 20-yard effort narrowly wide with the outside of his foot.

Wigan ended the game in United territory, but never seriously threatened to snatch and equaliser and deprive the champions of victory.

Wayne Rooney